Articles

1. Twenty predictions for the future of CPD: Implications of the shift from the update model to improving clinical practice
Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions. Summer 2012, Vol. 32 Issue 3, p151-152. 2p. .
Abstract: The author discusses trends in continuing professional development (CPD) for clinical practice, noting that the field has moved from an information dissemination model to one of specific educational interventions. He makes several predictions for the future of CPD, including an emphasis on teamwork, a shift from a psychological to a sociological framework of learning and behavior, and utilization of theory-based evaluation methods such as logic models..

2. A randomized trial assessing the impact of a personal printed feedback portrait on statin prescribing in primary care
By Dormuth, Colin R.; Carney, Greg; Taylor, Suzanne; Bassett, Ken; Maclure, Malcolm. Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions. Summer 2012, Vol. 32 Issue 3, p153-162. 10p
Abstract: Knowledge translation (KT) initiatives have the potential to improve prescribing quality and produce savings that exceed the cost of the KT program itself, including the cost of evaluation using pragmatic study methods. Our objective was to measure the impact and estimated savings resulting from the distribution of individualized physician portraits of statin prescribing along with therapeutic recommendations in British Columbia, Canada. Methods: A paired community design was used to study 2 725 family physicians in British Columbia.
 
3. Efficacy of continuing education in improving pharmacists' competencies for providing weight management service: Three-arm randomized controlled trial
By Sarayani, Amir; Rashidian, Arash; Gholami, Kheirollah; Torkamandi, Hassan; Javadi, Mohammadreza. Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions. Summer 2012, Vol. 32 Issue 3, p163-173. 11p
Abstract: Weight management is a new public health role for community pharmacists in many countries. Lack of expertise is one of the key barriers to counseling obese patients. We evaluated the comparative efficacy of three alternative continuing education (CE) meetings on weight management.

4. Development of a competency framework for quality improvement in family medicine: A qualitative study
By Czabanowska, Katarzyna; Klemenc-Ketis, Zalika; Potter, Amanda; Rochfort, Andrée; Tomasik, Tomasz; Csiszar, Judit; Van den Bussche, Piet. Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions. Summer 2012, Vol. 32 Issue 3, p174-180. 7p
Abstract: The aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive framework of quality improvement competencies for use in continuing professional development (CPD) and continuing medical education (CME) for European general practice/family medicine physicians (GPs/FDs).
Methods: The study was carried out in three phases: literature review, consensus development panels, and Delphi technique. An initial competencies framework was developed from an extensive literature review focusing on literature in English from 2000 to 2011 and addressing quality improvement competencies for general practitioners in continuous education programs.

5. Using the cascade model to improve antenatal screening for the hemoglobin disorders
By Gould, Dinah; Papadopoulos, Irena; Kelly, Daniel. Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions. Summer 2012, Vol. 32 Issue 3, p181-186. 6p
Abstract: The inherited hemoglobin disorders constitute a major public health problem. Facilitators (experienced hemoglobin counselors) were trained to deliver knowledge and skills to 'frontline' practitioners to enable them to support parents during antenatal screening via a cascade (train-the-trainer) model. Objectives of evaluation were to explore the extent that the cascade model was perceived to be embedded in practice, identify enablers and barriers to effective cascading, assess the feasibility of incorporating e-learning into the model, and obtain the facilitators' perceptions of the change process. Methods: Focus groups and interviews were undertaken with 50 facilitators. Data were analyzed thematically.
Results: Cascading was influenced by contextual factors operating in the work environment, especially workload, existing roles and responsibilities and adequate preparation. Facilitators' confidence and perceptions of success varied for individuals in the same workplace exposed to the same opportunities to receive and deliver training. Cascading could by enhanced by carefully selecting potential facilitators, training needs assessment to identify the knowledge and skills required by individuals, and follow-up to offer ongoing support.

6.  Refer2Quit: Impact of Web-based skills training on tobacco interventions and quitline referrals
By Carpenter, Kelly M.; Carlini, Beatriz H.; Painter, Ian; Mikko, A. Tasha; Stoner, Susan A. Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions. Summer 2012, Vol. 32 Issue 3, p187-195. 9p
Abstract: Tobacco quitlines (QLs) provide effective evidence-based tobacco cessation counseling, yet they remain underutilized. Barriers to utilization include the lack of referrals by health care providers who typically have little knowledge about QLs and low self-efficacy for providing tobacco interventions. In order to educate providers about QLs, referral methods and tobacco interventions, a case-based online CME/CE program, Refer2Quit (R2Q), was developed. R2Q includes QL education and intervention and referral skills training tailored to provider type (eg, physician, nurse, dental provider, pharmacist) and work setting (eg, emergency, outpatient, inpatient). A module teaching motivational enhancement strategies was also included.

7. Impact of interprofessional education on collaboration attitudes, skills, and behavior among primary care professionals
By Robben, Sarah; Perry, Marieke; van Nieuwenhuijzen, Leontien; van Achterberg, Theo; Rikkert, Marcel Olde; Schers, Henk; Heinen, Maud; Melis, René. Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions. Summer 2012, Vol. 32 Issue 3, p196-204. 9p
Abstract: Care for the frail elderly is often provided by several professionals. Collaboration between them is essential, but remains difficult to achieve. Interprofessional education (IPE) can improve this collaboration. We developed a 9-hour IPE program for primary care professionals from 7 disciplines caring for the frail elderly, and aimed to establish whether the program improved professionals' interprofessional attitudes and attitudes toward collaboration, collaboration skills, and collaborative behavior. We also evaluated learners' reactions to the program.

8. Attendees' perceptions of commercial influence in noncommercially funded CME programs
By Goldfarb, Elizabeth; Baer, Lee; Fromson, John A.; Gorrindo, Tristan; Iodice, Kristin E.; Birnbaum, Robert J. Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions. Summer 2012, Vol. 32 Issue 3, p205-211. 7p
Abstract: The controversy surrounding commercial support for continuing medical education (CME) programs has led to policy changes, but data show no significant difference in perceived bias between commercial and noncommercial CME. Indeed, what attendees perceive as commercial influence is not fully understood. We sought to clarify what sources contribute to attendees' perceptions of commercial influence in non-industry-supported CME programs, and how attendees perceive that this influence manifests itself on both speaker and program levels. Methods: Evaluation forms were received from 1 544 attendees at 14 live noncommercially supported CME programs in 2006, 2007, and 2010. Attendees rated perceived commercial influence for each lecture and the entire program. Using open-ended and 'check all that apply'' questions, participants specified perceived sources and manifestations of commercial influence.

Articles - "The Common Cold"

9. Update from the cold front: There's no cure in sight, but there do seem to be ways to make the common cold less common
Harvard Health Letter. Feb 2011, Vol. 36 Issue 4, p4-4. 1p
Abstract: The article provides information on several methods for prevention and treatment of common cold. It informs that colds are caused by viruses that invade upper respiratory tract, therefore antibiotics would not help the afflicted feel better. It further informs about several studies to combat colds which includes scientist Linus Pauling's assertion to use vitamin C, use of herb Echinacea purpurea, and Texas researcher George Eby's research about the use of zinc..

10.  Zinc for the common cold—not if but when
By Rao, Goutham; Rowland, Kate; Hickner, John. Journal of Family Practice. Nov 2011, Vol. 60 Issue 11, p669-671. 3p.

11. What do you tell parents when their child is sick with the common cold?
By KinyonMunch, Kathryn. Journal for Specialists in Pediatric Nursing. Jan 2011, Vol. 16 Issue 1, p8-15
Abstract: To review research supporting the 's recommendation to relabel over-the-counter cough and cold medications (OTC CCMs), warning against use in young children. Research has shown that the majority of OTC CCMs and antihistamines have little to no effect when used to treat the common cold and have a risky safety profile. Despite these findings, parents continue to use OTC CCMs for treatment of their children's colds. Educating parents on the lack of scientific evidence supporting the use of OTC CCMs and the potential for harm is important in altering parental perception and decreasing the purchase of OTC CCMs.[ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] .

12. Examining the evidence for the use of vitamin C in the prophylaxis and treatment of the common cold
By Heimer, Kathryn A.; Hart, Ann Marie; Martin, Linda Gore; Rubio-Wallace, Sherrie. Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. May 2009, Vol. 21 Issue 5, p295-300
Abstract: Purpose: To present a critical evaluation of the current evidence concerning the therapeutic value of vitamin C for the prophylaxis and treatment of the common cold.
Conclusions: Vitamin C is frequently used for the treatment and prophylaxis of the common cold; however, no published recommendations were found in a review of the nurse practitioner literature that specifically address the efficacy of vitamin C for the common cold. Our literature review revealed that vitamin C is not effective at preventing the common cold in the general adult population; however, it is effective at preventing colds when consumed regularly by athletes training in subarctic conditions. We also found that regular vitamin C consumption may reduce the duration of cold symptoms in both adults and children, but it does not decrease the severity of cold symptoms. ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] .

Articles - Legionella

13. Prevalence of Legionella Strains in Cooling Towers and Legionellosis Cases in New Zealand
By Lau, Robert; Maqsood, Saadia; Harte, David; Caughley, Brian; Deacon, Rob. Journal of Environmental Health. Jan/Feb 2013, Vol. 75 Issue 6, p82-89
Abstract: Over 3,900 water samples from 688 cooling towers were tested for Legionella in 2008 in New Zealand. Of 80 (2.05% isolation rate) Legionella isolates, 10 (12.5%) were L. pneumophila serogroup 1; 10 (12.5%) were L. anisa; nine (11.2%) were L. pneumophila serogroup 8; and one (1.2%) was L. longbeachae serogroup 2. Forty-one (51.2%) Legionella isolates were L. pneumophila serogroups. Over 3,990 water samples from 606 cooling towers were tested for Legionella in 2009 in New Zealand. Of 51 (1.28% isolation rate) Legionella isolates, 18 (35.3%) were L. pneumophila serogroup 1, and 39 (76.4%) were other L. pneumophila serogroups. L. pneumophila serogroups were significantly associated with legionellosis cases in 2008 and 2009. L. longbeachae serogroups were equally significantly associated with legionellosis cases. This significant association of L. longbeachae with legionellosis particularly of L. longbeachae serogroup 1 is unique in that part of the world. Regular monitoring and maintenance of cooling towers have prevented outbreaks of legionellosis.[ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] .

14. Isolation and identification of Legionella pneumophila from material reclamation facilities
By Ali, Shanom; Phillips, Carol Ann; Phillips, Paul Scott; Bates, Margaret. International Journal of Environmental Health Research. Oct 2010, Vol. 20 Issue 5, p367-377. 11p
Abstract: Sampling points at a material reclamation facility (MRF) were monitored over three months for the presence of Legionella spp. A number of different Legionellae were isolated and typed to identify L. pneumophila serogroup 1, the serotype which is the most common human pathogen. Phenotypic methods resulted in a total of 61 presumptive isolates of Legionella spp. Using latex agglutination, 26 out of the 61 were identified as L. pneumophila serogroup 1, 23 as L. pneumophila serogroups 2-14, and the remaining 12 were Legionella spp. However, on typing using pulse field gel electrophoresis, the 26 L. pneumophila serotype 1 isolates were a diverse group of 25 PFGE types with none persisting in the environment over time. This diversity suggests that there are a number of contamination sources for this important human pathogen in the MRF environment which constitute a risk to health for operatives in these facilities.[ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] .

15. Travel and weather implicated as secondary legionella risk factors
Occupational Health. Sep 2008, Vol. 60 Issue 9, p25-26. 2p
Abstract: The article considers travel and weather as secondary risk factors for legionnaires' disease. It is noted that of the more than 450 cases of legionnaires' disease recorded in residents of England and Wales in 2007, a third were likely to have been contracted as a result of spells spent in hotels, either in Great Britain or abroad. The record number of cases of legionnaires' disease that occurred in England and Wales in 2006 has been studied to test the hypothesis that meteorological conditions played a significant part.

Latest Ministry of Health Publications

16. Health Loss in New Zealand: A report from the New Zealand Burden of Diseases, Injuries and Risk Factors Study 2006–2016
The New Zealand Burden of Diseases, Injuries and Risk Factors Study, 2006–2016 (NZBD) analyses health losses sustained by New Zealanders of all ages, both sexes and both major ethnic groups.
http://www.health.govt.nz/publication/health-loss-new-zealand-
report-new-zealand-burden-diseases-injuries-and-risk-factors-
study-2006-2016

17. Ways and Means: A report on methodology from the New Zealand Burden of Disease, Injury and Risk Study, 2006 - 2016
http://www.health.govt.nz/publication/ways-and-means-report-
methodology-new-zealand-burden-disease-injury-and-risk-study-
2006-2016

Journal - Table of Contents

18. Selected articles from Nursing Standard, Volume 27 No. 48, July 31-August 6 2013
18A. Former Mid Staffs nursing director denies 29 breaches of NMC code; A&E nurses struck off for falsifying records
18B. Regulators are not here to be liked, but I want the NMC to be respected [Jackie Smith, NMC Chief Executive]
Clinical Digest
18C. Fracture risk following menopause is reduced by combining medications; Prevalence of mental disorders in offspring is not increased by IVF and ICSI techniques; Specialist care for dementia patients has little impact on length of hospital stay; Exercise programmes fail to keep depression at bay in care home residents; Waiting before clamping the cord can bring better outcomes for babies
18D. Life after cancer
18E. Catheter care the Pennine way
18F. Options on obesity [Surgical measures for obese patients are being avoided with the help of weight-loss services that rely on expert nurses]
18G. Mapping a food island is my route to better nutrition for older people; The ethics of opting in or out
Art & Science
18H. Perspectives of person-centred care
18I. Evaluating handover practice in an acute NHS trust
18J. Promoting compassionate care through learning journeys
18K. Breathlessness [Fears experienced by COPD patients]
18L. How to make the most of agency working
18M. Lessons in compassion

Conferences

19. Palliative Care Nurses New Zealand (PCNNZ) Conference 2013
Venue: James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor, Wellington, New Zealand
Date: Thursday 14 & Friday 15 November 2013
More information; http://www.eenz.com/pcnnz13/

20. Traumed Conference 2013
‘The Top Half”
Date: 18-20 October 2013
More information: http://www.traumed.org.nz/events/annual-conference/

News - National

21. Legionella closes Morrinsville maternity unit
The Rhoda Read maternity unit in Morrinsville was closed to new birthing admissions on Friday, after one of its showerheads tested positive for legionella. Post-natal and emergency care will continue at the facility, but it is unclear if birthing services will be reinstated. The legionella bacteria spreads through mist or vapor and cannot be transmitted from person to person. Legionnaires' disease can be mild, but in severe cases it can lead to lung infection or pneumonia.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/news/9029103/Legionella-
closes-Morrinsville-maternity-unit

22. Hospitals miss target for urgent treatment
Stuff - 11 Aug 2013
Hospital emergency departments are missing waiting time targets, with rising numbers of urgent cases not being seen by a doctor within recommended times, new figures reveal. Patients suffering from serious head injury, moderately severe trauma or suspected heart attacks - all classed as triage two - should be seen within 10 minutes.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/9027526/Hospitals-miss-
target-for-urgent-treatment

23. New qualification for aged-care workers
Manawatu Standard - 9/8/13
http://www.stuff.co.nz/manawatu-standard/news/9022455/New-
qualification-for-aged-care-workers

24. Obesity overtaking tobacco as a major cause of disease - report
Friday August 09, 2013 - ONE News
The new "Burden of Disease" report by the Ministry of Health compares quality and quantity of life. The report, described as a "GDP of health", finds that obesity is beginning to overtake tobacco as a significant cause of deteriorating health. Professor Tony Blakely from the Burden of Disease Epidemiology, Equity and Cost-Effectiveness programme at the University of Otago says as the prevalence of tobacco is coming down it is causing less disease and death - morbidity and mortality.
http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/obesity-overtaking-tobacco-major-
cause-disease-report-5530035

25. First signs of a drop in US childhood obesity: report
NZ Herald - Thursday Aug 8, 2013
Health officials say they have the first evidence of a decline in childhood obesity in the US.A government report released this week found at least slight declines in obesity rates for low-income preschoolers in 18 states. Rates went up in three states. The report is based on the heights and weights of nearly 12 million low-income children in 40 states.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/news/article.cfm?
c_id=6&objectid=10909282

26. Sense of smell - it's in our genes
NZ Herald - Aug 2, 2013
The study showed subtle genetic mutations means we smell things differently. Photo / Getty Images Rosy or revolting? Ground-breaking research by Kiwi scientists has proven there's a reason why some people enjoy the smell of things that others might retch at - and it's got nothing to do with style or taste. World-first studies by Plant and Food Research, published in the journal Current Biology today, effectively prove that subtle genetic mutations are the reason why we smell things differently, if even at all.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?
c_id=1&objectid=10906870

News - International

27. Maximising return on health dollar investment
The Age - August 8, 2013
The idea that population health is determined by more than investment in hospitals, doctors and medical technology was championed recently by a Harvard University Professor at the McCaughey Oration, an annual event hosted by the McCaughey VicHealth Centre for Community Wellbeing. Gathering to celebrate the social sciences and their contribution to addressing inequities in health and wellbeing, the oration was presented by Ichiro Kawachi, MD, Professor of Social Epidemiology and Chair of the Department of Society, Human Development and Health at the Harvard School of Public Health.
http://www.theage.com.au/national/education/voice/maximising-
return-on-health-dollar-investment-20130805-2r987.html

28. Nursing home report card lists states that fail to protect elderly
Washington Post - August 10 2013 11:43 AM EDT — A new report shows that some states are failing to protect the elderly from neglect or abuse. (CBS News
http://www.washingtonpost.com/posttv/national/nursing-home-
report-card-lists-states-that-fail-to-protect-
elderly/2013/08/10/f56b7cfc-01bc-11e3-8294-
0ee5075b840d_video.html