Articles – Surgical Mesh

1. Adverse events after first, single, mesh and non-mesh surgical procedures for stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse in Scotland, 1997-2016: a population-based cohort study
Morling, Joanne R; McAllister, David A; Agur, Wael; Fischbacher, Colin M; Glazener, Cathryn M A
The Lancet; London 389.10069 (Feb 11, 2017): 629-640.
Abstract: Concerns have been raised about the safety of surgery for stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse using transvaginal mesh. We assessed adverse outcomes after first, single mesh procedures and comparable non-mesh procedures.

2. Transvaginal mesh
Rosenblatt, Peter L.; Dessie, Sybil G.
Contemporary OB/GYN, Oct2016; 61(10): 20-28. 4p
Abstract: The article discusses the use of transvaginal mesh (TVM) implant in the management of pelvic organ prolapse with 75,000 procedures conducted in the U.S. between 2008 and 2010. Topics covered include factors affecting reconstructive surgical approach such as medical state of the individual, competency of the surgeon and comorbidity, a comparison between native tissue and TVM augmented surgery.

3. Biomechanical, Topological and Chemical Features That Influence the Implant Success of an Urogynecological Mesh: A Review
De Maria, Carmelo; Santoro, Vito; Vozzi, Giovanni
BioMed Research International, 4/28/2016; 2016 1-6. 6p
Abstract: Synthetic meshes are normally used to treat several diseases in the field of urogynecological surgery. Not-optimal selection of mesh and/or its not-correct implant may increase patient’s pain and discomfort. The knowledge of mechanical behaviour and topological and chemical properties of a mesh plays a fundamental role to minimize patient’s suffering and maximize the implant success.

4. Laparoscopic repair of voluminous symptomatic hiatal hernia using absorbable synthetic mesh
Berselli, Mattia; Livraghi, Lorenzo; Latham, Lorenzo; Farassino, Luca; Rota Bacchetta, Gian Luca; Pasqua, Noemi; Ceriani, Ileana; Segato, Sergio; Cocozza, Eugenio
Minimally Invasive Therapy & Allied Technologies, Dec 2015; 24(6): 372-376. 5p
Abstract: Hiatal hernia is a common disorder and a controversial topic. In symptomatic voluminous hernias laparoscopic surgery and use of mesh can be considered. An initial experience in voluminous hiatal hernia laparoscopic repair using absorbable glycolic acid/trimethylene carbonate synthetic mesh is reported

Articles – British Journal of Nursing

5. Using audits as evidence
Ray-Barruel, Gillian
British Journal of Nursing; 4/27/2017; v.26. n.8, S3-S3. 1p.
Abstract: An editorial is presented on the use of medical audits for the effective selection and management of vascular access device. It mentions the problems pertaining to site selection and device insertion as well as complications due to the prolong use of catheter.

6. Medical adhesive-related skin injuries associated with vascular access
Hitchcock, Jan; Savine, Louise
British Journal of Nursing, 4/27/2017; 26(8): S4-S12. 7p
Abstract: Establishing vascular access and preventing infection, both at insertion and during ongoing care is generally the top priority; the maintenance of optimal skin integrity is often a distant secondary consideration. Skin can react to different types of dressings or adhesives, or problems can arise relating to the securement of lines or the development of sensitivities to cleaning solutions.

7. Hand decontamination in clinical practice: a review of the evidence
Rigby, Ruth; Pegram, Anne; Woodward, Sue
British Journal of Nursing, 4/27/2017; 26(8): 448-451. 4p
Abstract: Hand decontamination is known to significantly reduce the spread of hospital-acquired infections but, despite a wealth of guidelines and education campaigns, evidence suggests that many healthcare workers are non-compliant with hand decontamination.

8. Management of foreign body ingestions in children: button batteries and magnets.
Kodituwakku, Ronan; Palmer, Sarah; Paul, Siba Prosad
British Journal of Nursing, 4/27/2017; 26(8): 456-461. 6p
Abstract: Foreign body ingestion and foreign body aspiration commonly affect young children between 6 months and 6 years. A large number of these events remain unwitnessed and asymptomatic while the swallowed foreign body traverses the gastrointestinal tract and is passed in the stool.

Articles – Cross cultural Communication

9. Cross-Cultural Communication in Oncology: Challenges and Training Interests.
Weber, Orest; Sulstarova, Brikela; Singy, Pascal
Oncology Nursing Forum, Jan 2016 Supplement Online Exclusive Articles; 43 E24-E33. 10p
Abstract: Survey oncology nurses and oncologists about difficulties in taking care of culturally and linguistically diverse patients and about interests in cross-cultural training. Sample: 108 oncology nurses and 44 oncologists.

10. Design and evaluation of interprofessional cross-cultural communication sessions 
Liu, Min; Poirier, Therese; Butler, Lakesha; Comrie, Rhonda; Pailden, Junvie
Journal of Interprofessional Care, Nov 2015; 29(6): 622-627. 6p
Abstract: The 2013 National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS) call for healthcare professionals to provide quality care and services that are responsive to diverse cultural health beliefs and practices. Accreditation organizations for health professional programs require their curriculum to adequately prepare future practitioners for serving culturally and linguistically diverse populations.

11. Ethnic Swedish Parents' experiences of minority ethnic nurses' cultural competence in Swedish paediatric care.
Tavallali, Azar G.; Kabir, Zarina Nahar; Jirwe, Maria
Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences, Jun 2014; 28(2): 255-263. 9p
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to explore how parents with ethnic Swedish backgrounds experience minority ethnic nurses' cultural competence and the care the nurses provide in a Swedish paediatric care context. Method This exploratory qualitative study is of 14 parents with an ethnic Swedish background whose child was in a ward at a children's hospital in Stockholm County Council.

12. Beating the odds: How indigenous nurses and midwives are closing the health gap
By Rind, Banok.
Australian Nursing & Midwifery Journal. Jun 2017, Vol. 20 Issue 11, p20-25. 6p.
Abstract: The article discusses the views of next-generation Indigenous Australians about the efforts in closing the gap in Australia's health sector. Topics covered include the profile of Aboriginal nursing graduate Banok Rind, the important role of Indigenous nurses and midwives according to Congress of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurses and Midwives (CATSINaM) chief executive officer (CEO) Janine Mohamed, and how to inspire change according to emerging Indigenous nurse Joshua Paulson.

13. Blueprint for Sustainable Change in Diversity Management and Cultural Competence: Lessons From the National Center for Healthcare Leadership Diversity Demonstration Project.
By Dreachslin, Janice L.; Weech-Maldonado, Robert; Gail, Judith; Patien Epané, Josué; AnneWainio, Joyce.
Journal of Healthcare Management. May/Jun 2017, Vol. 62 Issue 3, p171-183. 14p
Abstract: The article discusses the lessons from the National Center for Healthcare Leadership Diversity Demonstration Project on a blueprint for sustainable change in diversity management and cultural competence. Topics covered include the business case for diversity, the need for diversity to be managed, and the implementation of the project's organizational action plan.

14. Improving LGBT cultural competence in nursing students: An integrative review
By Orgel, Hallie.
ABNF Journal. Winter 2017, Vol. 28 Issue 1, p14-18. 5p
Abstract: This study was done to synthesize current evidence in determining the best practice for improving the cultural competence of undergraduate nursing students towards the LGBT population. This integrative review included a systematic literature search of 12 databases

Articles – Sleep Patterns/Better Sleep

15. Promoting healthy sleep
Nursing Standard, May 2017. 31, 40, 64-65
Abstract: A CPD article improved Amanda Cant’s knowledge of the importance of healthy sleep and its effects
Amanda Cant Staff nurse. Market Harborough and District Hospital, Leicestershire

16. Great sleep starts here
By Patz, Aviva.
Health. Nov 2016, Vol. 30 Issue 9, p92-93. 2p
Abstract: The article offers several tips for getting a good sleep. Topics discussed include use of banana tea as it contains large amount of magnesium which is incredibly calming; reinforcing daily sleep patterns by using darkness and light; use of old-fashioned reading; and involving in physical and emotional intimacy.

17. Better diet and sleep might help protect your brain
Tufts University Health & Nutrition Letter. Nov 2016, Vol. 34 Issue 9, p1-3. 2p.
Abstract: The article discusses the role of improved diet and sleep in reducing the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia based on a review by Francesca Pistollato of the European University of the Atlantic in Santander, Spain and her colleagues. Topics include the association of poor sleep quality and diet with the accumulation of plaques linked with Alzheimer's disease, the role of a hormone called cortisol in regulating sleep, and the foods and nutrients possibly linked to cortisol regulation.

Journal Table of Contents

American Journal of Nursing, Vol 117 Number 5, May 2017

18A. Guest Editorial: The essence of nursing care
18B. Viewpoint: In defense of routine inpatient pain assessment
18C. News: Should adults experiencing In-hospital cardiac arrest be intubated?; Analysis of cancer deaths at the County level pinpoints hot spots for action
18D. News: Do health food store staff steer teen boys to muscle-enhancing supplements?; Laundry detergent pods linked to increased eye injuries in children; New clinical guideline for low back pain says try nondrug therapies first
18E. AJN reports: Can health care professionals do anything about gun violence?
18F. Creating an evidence-based progression for clinical advancement programs
18G. Venous thromboembolism: Updated management guidelines
18H. Deep tissue pressure injury: A clinical review
18I. Discharge planning and teaching
18J. Project TENDR: Collaborative effort by scientists, health care professionals, and children’s advocates to promote chemical policy reform
18K. Blog: What a nurse really wants
18L. Cochrane corner: Managing chemotherapy-induced anemia with erythropoiesis-simulating agents plus iron
18M. What types of articles to write
18N. Reflections: The nurse who saw me

Conferences & Workshops

19. NZ Population Health Congress 2018
Theme: 'Sharing solutions, shaping our future  E hara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini' (My strength is not as an individual, but as a collective).
Date: 18 – 20 April 2018
Venue: Auckland
More information: http://www.pophealthcongress.org.nz/nzphc18

20. Seminar - Paediatric allergy
The purpose of this workshop is to review the latest evidence in food allergy prevention and treatment
Date: Monday, 26 June 2017
Venue: Pharmac, Wellington
More information: https://www.pharmac.govt.nz/seminars/paediatric-allergy/

21. Seminar - Dementia update
Date: Friday, 4 August 2017
Venue: Pharmac, Wellington
The goal of this session is to provide an overview of the patient journey with dementia, including aspects of dementia care from diagnosis to end of life.
More information: https://www.pharmac.govt.nz/seminars/dementia-update/

22. Seminar - Cardiovascular disease for Primary Care
The seminar will cover hypertension and management of lipids in primary care
Date: Wednesday, 9 August 2017
Venue: Pharmac, Wellington
More information: https://www.pharmac.govt.nz/seminars/cardiovascular-disease-for-primary-care/

News – National
 

23. Life-like mannequins the new face of surgical training (Video)
Aaron Leaman 09:19, June 5 2017
James Reynolds is one of life's battlers. The 87-year-old has just spent the morning inside one of Waikato Hospital's operating theatres having a cancerous skin lesion the size of a poached egg removed from his neck. As he begins to rouse, Kaylene Henderson, an anaesthetic technician, moves to his side and offers him words of comfort.
http://i.stuff.co.nz/national/health/93174232/lifelike-manikins-the-new-face-of-surgical-training

24. What is "brain hacking"? Tech insiders on why you should care
Silicon Valley is engineering your phone, apps and social media to get you hooked, says a former Google product manager. Anderson Cooper reports
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/brain-hacking-tech-insiders-60-minutes/

25. Christine Rankin says she was a victim of mesh surgery
Cate Broughton 11:41, June 5 2017
Politician Christine Rankin has spoken candidly about her experience of vaginal mesh injury as outrage about the lack of regulation for surgical mesh grows. "Mesh is dangerous and it should be used with caution and the truth needs to be told about it," she says.
http://i.stuff.co.nz/national/health/93300068/christine-rankin-says-she-was-a-victim-of-mesh-surgery

26. Ethnic inequalities in mortality in NZ and how to reduce them further
Posted on May 29, 2017
Dr George Disney, Dr Andrea Teng, June Atkinson, Frederieke Sanne van der Deen, Prof Nick Wilson, Prof Tony Blakely.
In a study we just published, we found that whilst there have been declines in all-cause mortality rates, over time, for Māori, Pacific peoples and the European/Other ethnic group, there are still striking mortality gaps that need to be addressed. https://blogs.otago.ac.nz/pubhealthexpert/2017/05/29/ethnic-inequalities-in-mortality-in-nz-and-how-to-reduce-them-further/

News – International

27. Pelvic mesh devices hit by allegations of research fraud, experimental surgery on thousands of women
Sydney Morning Herald - March 14 2017
Pelvic devices developed in Australia from the 1980s and 1990s are at the centre of a global medical scandal that includes regulatory failure, and allegations of research fraud and experimental surgery on women in multiple countries.
http://www.smh.com.au/national/health/pelvic-mesh-devices-hit-by-allegations-of-research-fraud-experimental-surgery-on-thousands-of-women-20170313-guxclj.html

28. Endocrine disrupting chemicals: Is your home making you sick?
ABC Science - 20 May 2017
Obesity, type 2 diabetes, and some cancer rates are on the rise in humans, while sperm count and fertility are on a downward slide in some populations. What if chemical exposure was partly responsible for these trends? One hypothesis is that a group of chemicals — known as 'endocrine disrupting chemicals' (EDCSs) — could affect human reproduction, puberty, metabolism and other functions controlled by hormones in our endocrine system.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/science/2017-05-20/endocrine-disrupting-chemicals-is-your-home-making-you-sick/8536926