# Cross-discipline / Interprofessional Topic

Transcription

1 # Cross-discipline / Interprofessional Topic Biomedical sciences, podiatry, physiotherapy Biomedical sciences, physiotherapy, podiatry, speech pathology Does self-reported activity/exercise level correlate with heart rate variability and heart function? Exercise and diet are often cited as the primary preventative measures for progression to diabetes and heart disease. Whether perceived diet and exercise level corresponds to a healthy functioning heart has not been investigated. This project aims at elucidating the exercise level and diet habits of healthy participants of the diabetes complications screening programme and correlate this to heart health obtained by 12-lead ECG recording. Compare medication profile with presence of risk category and metabolic syndrome (aspirin, statins, antioxidants, antihypertensives, CVD drugs) The use of medication as preventative and ongoing care is an important part of health care and maintaining good health as well as quality of life. However Wether this intervention achieves its aims in a rural community such as Albury- Wodonga has not been investigated especially for those with metabolic syndrome (increased cholesterol, high blood sugar, high blood pressure). This combination of risk factors leads to an increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease and therefore needs to be managed well. Primary contact and supervisor Co-supervisors Diabetes Research Initiative led by with involvement from physiotherapy and podiatry Diabetes Research Initiative led by with involvement from physiotherapy, speech pathology and podiatry.

2 Biomedical sciences, podiatry, physiotherapy Biomedical sciences Biomedical sciences, physiotherapy Do people with diabetes follow up on recommendations to seek further information from health practitioners? Health clinics provide intervention and advice to seek further health care from other primary health practitioners. How well do patients follow this advice? The diabetes complications screening initiative has collected data on this for analysis. This can be compared to a clinic located in the Border region such as a podiatry or physiotherapy clinic. Does self-efficacy or sense of wellbeing influence obesity in women? Can measures of ECG indicate diabetes related health disease? Several automated interpretations of the 12-lead ECG are available for risk stratification. However how these differ for age, gender and diabetes progression has not been studied. The project involves recording 12-lead ECGs for 5 minutes and determining the QT interval in a diabetes cohort attending the diabetes screening project at CSU, School of Community Health. Statistics is then used to determine any association with years of diabetes and the ECG parameters. arising from the School s Diabetes Research Initiative led by with involvement from physiotherapy, speech pathology and podiatry Diabetes Research Initiative led by with support from Dr Lexin Wang at Wagga. and physiotherapy

3 Biomedical sciences, physiotherapy Prolonged QTc interval, heart rate variability and diabetes Cardiovascular death is the leading cause of death in diabetes. Recently an association between prolonged QTc interval, increased heart rate and cardiovascular mortality has been identified in people with diabetes. Determining prolonged QTc depends on optimal ECG traces with minimum of noise. However changes in the length of the QTc interval also affects the heart rate variability, which is easier to determine from the QRS interval spacing. Diabetes Research Initiative led by with support from Dr Lexin Wang at Wagga. and physiotherapy. This study investigates whether a relationship exists between prolonged QTc interval and heart rate variability using a 3-lead ECG recording. Heart rate variability assessment can then be routinely implemented in population screening by community health professionals such as physiotherapists or community nurses as part of their service. Investigation of a potential therapeutic target to treat muscular dystrophy Biomedical sciences, all disciplines This is a laboratory-based research project that will use molecular and cell biology techniques to investigate the role of a specific protein in the pathogenesis of muscular dystrophy. It is an ideal project for students who would like to develop new skills and broaden their understanding of muscle biology. Dr Jillian Dunphy Dr Jillin Dunphy & Dr Gayle Smythe

4 Biomedical sciences Use of alternative medicines in a cohort with diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This study investigates the use of alternative medication in addition to or solely for individuals that have diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Is there a gender or age difference? Social and economic factors involved in greater high blood pressure incidence on the Border This project is led by Jenny Wilkinson at Wagga campus and Herbert in conjunction with the Diabetes Research Initiative Biomedical sciences Our recent research has found that there is a greater prevalence of high blood pressure on the border. It is important to find out contributing factors. This topic will look at socioeconomic and psychological factors. How good is our health education for people with chronic illness? This study aims at investigating education practice by physiotherapy, speech pathology, occupational therapy, or allied health in general by reviewing examples of written material using a number of set criteria from the literature to determine how well the material was designed. A random selection of people from the public are then interviewed to determine the impact the literature has on their health care. This project is led by Herbert in conjunction with the Diabetes Research Initiative and courses to allow for course specific interpretation (OT/SP?PT)

5 / OT / OT Podiatry, Physiotherapy, OT Incidence of chronic pain in rural communities/ Issues of access to support services for people living with chronic pain/moving on with chronic pain; experiences post-attendance at a regional chronic pain program An exploration of the impact of respite care in aged health care Respite care is where a person is admitted to an aged care facility for a short time in order to give families and carers a break from caring. This research will explore respite care from a range of perspectives including Clients and their families Health workers Residents in aged care facilities where respite care is used Falls Exploration of key causes and effective and viable countermeasures and preventive strategies for falls and fall-related injuries in people aged 65 years or more of rural communities in the Greater Southern Area Health Service (GSAHS) service area that experience high rates of fall-related, elder hospitalisations. Helen Van Huet Dr Michael Curtin Assoc Prof Julia Coyle Helen Van Huet in conjunction with WRHS Pain Management Program partnership with the Lutheran Aged Care led by Dr Michael Curtin associated with staff in Lutheran Aged Care & researchers from across CSU partnership with the GSAHS led by Assoc Prof Julia Coyle & Dr Rod Pope associated with staff in the GSAHS & researchers across CSU

6 Community health and community development Judith Crockett Mental health Judith Crockett Early intervention Judith Crockett Community Rehabilitation Judith Crockett Chronic disease self management the influence Dr Simone of health practitioner interactions O Connor Self-management and adherence to health care Dr Simone interventions O Connor Assoc Prof Julia Allied health professionals and perceptions of Coyle & Dr practice Megan Smith What do students know about clinical reasoning Dr Megan Smith Why don t undergraduate allied heath students enrol in honours? This study forms an element of a doctoral research project. The 3 rd year cohort of allied health students (podiatry, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology) will be surveyed, to identify possible factors which may inform decision-making about honours study. Qualitative information will also be collected about the students attitudes towards honours study. Caroline Robinson

7 Physiotherapy, podiatry How does interprofessional clinical working influence students learning? This study is funded by a learning and teaching grant from the School of Community Health. It aims to explore the dynamics of interprofessional working in a clinical situation, between undergraduate podiatry and physiotherapy students. Students, clinical educators and clients will contribute to the data collection, using survey and focus group methods. Greater Area Health Supervision and Support Project (GAHSSP): Can we implement and sustain a supervision and support programme for rural and remote allied health practitioners in the Greater Southern Area Health Service (GSAHS)? This study is funded by the GSAHS. It is an Action Research project. Caroline Robinson & Narelle Patton Dr Anna Moran, Assoc Prof Julia Coyle, Dr Rod Pope Perspectives of past honours students of the opportunities afforded them by undertaking an Dr Anna Moran integrated honours programme Perspectives of staff and students regarding Dr Anna Moran integrated Vs add on honours programmes Roles and boundaries of support workers/ assistants working in rural health settings Dr Anna Moran as part of a joint research project between CSU (Julia Coyle, Rod Pope, Anna Moran) and Greater Southern Area Health Service

8 Experiences of support workers / assistants in remote health settings Qualified practitioner perspectives of support workers/ assistants in rural areas Practitioner perspectives of a new generic practitioner role in rural areas Students experiences of clinical education Improving articulation of use of theory and evidence in practice A variety of different techniques aimed to improve articulation of use of theory and evidence in practice will be explored, compared, and contrasted to determine which method/s are most effective. Methods to be trialled include: student and peer mentoring; academic-practitioner partnerships; case-based presentation and discussion in communities of practice; and, case story writing. Analysis of factors contributing to muscle breakdown in Duchenne muscular dystrophy Dr Anna Moran Dr Anna Moran Dr Anna Moran Dr Megan Smith Dr Clare Wilding Dr Gayle Smythe Dr Megan Smith & Narelle Patton Biomedical sciences / Duchenne muscular dystrophy results from a genetic mutation and protein deficiency that leads to severe weakness and wasting of skeletal muscle. Several laboratory-based projects are available in studying biochemical aspects of dystrophic muscle that contribute to muscle breakdown. Final projects can be determined by liaising with Gayle.

9 # Physiotherapy Topic ECG analysis compared to 6 minute walk test in efficacy of cardiac rehabilitation. Currently the outcome of cardiac rehabilitation is measured using the 6 minute walk test. However this test primarily indicates change in exercise capacity not heart health. This project is a continuation and investigates whether other ECG related parameters correlate with changes in the 6 minute walk test following cardiac rehabilitation. Therapeutic exercise in physiotherapy Adherence factors, rehabilitation Women s health in physiotherapy Especially, but not limited to, childbearing year Students experiences of learning to clinically reason in cardiopulmonary physiotherapy An analysis of the feasibility of a community based rehabilitation model for the provision of pulmonary rehabilitation within rural communities Collection of data on exercise capacity and lung health in rural communities Experiences of physiotherapy for individuals with cystic fibrosis living in rural communities Primary contact and supervisor Dr Simone O Connor Dr Simone O Connor Dr Megan Smith Dr Megan Smith Dr Megan Smith Dr Megan Smith Co-supervisors / other information Diabetes Research led by with involvement from physiotherapy

10 # Podiatry Topic Can wound assessment be automated in diabetic foot assessment? Wound assessment in podiatric care is time consuming and mostly subjective. The diabetes complications screening initiative has a programme that uses digital images to assess wounds and provides quantitative data. The project will investigate the ease of use of this technology in a podiatric clinic. The implications of diabetes on the health and well being of rural people. This research covers a range of topics including: Trends in the use of diabetes clinics in rural Australia in the past decade Measures used in monitoring people with diabetes e.g., o cardiovascular measures including ECG, blood tests o foot assessment including ABPI o balance and mobility medication profiles Primary contact and supervisor Assoc Prof Paul Tinley & Dr Herbert Co-supervisors / other information arising from the School s Diabetes Research Initiative led by research led by & Assoc Prof Paul Tinley. This project arises from a foundation of five years of research in this field & will include input from researchers from the School of Biomedical Sciences (Prof Patrick Ball & Dr Lexin Wang

11 Physiological effect of ultrasound using temperature change as a measure of blood flow increase in subject with subacute lesions in the foot and ankle region. EMG analysis of muscle function in the lower limb in subjects undergoing training for speeds walking compared to normal walking. Analysis of the presence of fungal flora in the podiatry clinic in both patients, the air and podiatrists themselves. The use of plantar padding/strapping in the treatment of foot lesions an EMED analysis. Analysis of plantar pressure (EMED) changes in patient with hard corns pre and post debridement. Does the podiatric patient cohort receive appropriate health care with respect to diabetes and cardiovascular risk? Primary health care providers are in a position not only to address issues associated with their own speciality but also to review the holistic care their patient receives including health assessment, medication, counselling and education. What health care does a podiatric patient receive who has diabetes or cardiovascular disease as seen in podiatric clinics? This question can be compared for metropolitan and rural podiatric care using a questionnaire. Associate Professor Paul Tinley. Associate Professor Paul Tinley Associate Professor Paul Tinley Associate Professor Paul Tinley Associate Professor Paul Tinley Diabetes Research Initiative led by with involvement from podiatry.

12 Does the presence of risk factors for diabetes or cardiovascular disease influence podiatric practice? Determine presence of 1) risk factors such as obesity, inactivity, age, diet, blood pressure, cholesterol and smoking. These risk factors provide a measure of risk for cardiovascular disease using the Framingham score and also whether metabolic syndrome is present. The latter is a marker for increased risk of both diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Are podiatrists aware of these risk factors? If so how do they incorporate these into their practice? Diabetes Research Initiative led by with involvement from podiatry

13 # Occupational Therapy Topic Research collaboration with the North East Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (NECAMS) Negotiation about specific topics is done with staff members from NECAMS The experience of fathers of children with ABI (or children with other disabilities) A survey of the current occupational engagement and identification of needs and issues regarding occupational engagement for Albury residents This study aims to identify current patterns of occupational engagement and also to determine whether Albury residents needs for occupational engagement are met or unmet. The study aims to document issues for Albury residents in relation to achieving wanted and needed occupational engagement. What are the barriers and enablers to occupational engagement in Albury? Primary contact and supervisor Dr Michael Curtin Jane Murtagh Dr Clare Wilding Co-supervisors / other information Michael Curtin

14 Enabling occupational engagement as a vehicle to reduce overweight and obesity News headlines proclaim that the world is experiencing an epidemic of overweight and obesity. Being overweight and obese is linked to many health concerns such as increased risk of heart disease and cancer. This study will explore ways in which Australians can reduce incidence of overweight and obesity in the community through participation in everyday occupations. The study will explore tailoring occupational lifestyles to achieve desired health goals. Occupational therapy practice in Australia between 1964 and 2010: Recovering our recent history. Review selected Docker Lectures and conduct oral history interviews. There may be the prospect of publishing the lectures to celebrate 50 years of Sylvia Docker lectures given by leading Australian Occupational Therapists. Gathering tales of practice from new and experienced occupational therapists Dr Clare Wilding Sally Denshire Sally Denshire

15 Creativity Including problem solving, various arts/art, music, drama etc or creative thinking and links to health, mental health, and well-being. Creativity can be applied to all populations: adolescents, the elderly, and children (through use of play), well healthy or clients in the healthcare setting. Topic can be either undertaken using mixed methodologies, stand alone qualitative methods of research or some measuring (quantitative research) Therese Schmid Identification of people with diabetes that require occupational therapy assessment and follow-up. Diabetes screening is only one side of the equation. The other half is to identify those that have health care requirements apart from the traditional factors such as blood pressure, glucose control or sight problems. Occupational therapy can provide follow-up that has an impact on the person s health perspective and quality of life. As such an instrument that is usable by non-experts in a diabetes screening clinic would provide a tool to identify those people requiring follow-up. This study investigates whether a questionnaire developed at CSU is useful by interviewing those identified by the questionnaire and comparing those that actually need follow-up by occupational therapy. Diabetes Research Initiative led by with involvement from occupational therapy.

16 # Speech Pathology Topic Topics around ASD, SLI, specific learning difficulties & behaviour New graduates perceptions of professional issues education. Final year speech pathology students at Charles Sturt University undertake a Professional Issues subject in first semester (SPH401). This incorporates issues such as management, ethics and primary health care. Feedback about this subject usually includes queries about the subject s relevance and usefulness in a year that is dominated by the need to obtain clinical competency. This project will obtain opinions of this subject from speech pathologists who graduated from Charles Sturt University within the previous 12 months. The aim of the project is to determine whether opinions of the subject s relevance to professional practice change once speech pathology students have been in the workforce and experienced some of the issues addressed in this undergraduate subject. How well prepared are new grads for managing dysphagia in non-metropolitan areas? Short survey of recent graduates. Topics in stuttering Primary contact and supervisor Dr Diane Jacobs Dr Emma McLaughlin Michelle Smith- Tamaray Dr Linda Wilson Co-supervisors / other information

17 Australian English accent. When I arrived to live in Albury, I noted variations in the Australian English accent that appear to be regionally-based. For example, vowels preceding final /l/ vary from those I was used to hearing, and people realise vowels as schwa less often than I was used to hearing. Yet some of these variations appear not to be documented in the literature. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate one or two aspects of regional vowel variation in the local area Evaluating needs analysis for community development project with Condoblin Primary School. Would involve student in 2-3 visits to Condoblin, participation in Schools project-like activities plus other activities to promote language and communication with children in different services in the community Dr Linda Wilson Libby Clark

18 Analysing professional-client interactions in allied health. Extensive international research into doctor-patient interactions has influenced training and professional practice in medicine with positive impact on treatment outcomes. There has been little work to date on professional-client interactions in allied health, though speech pathologists and physiotherapists in UK and Scandinavia are starting to look in detail at how the therapist s talk influences client performance in therapy. Data would be collected during student clinical placements or through established clinical education partnerships. Approx 60 minutes of recorded interactions would be sufficient data for the type of detailed analysis that would be involved. Methodologies would include: Conversation Analysis, Ethnography and Critical Discourse Analysis. Involvement of international researchers as part of supervision team is possible for CA projects, where relevant. Conversation analysis therapy in everyday clinical practice. CA project analysing the conversations of two young gentlemen who are receiving conversationbased therapy: aim is to transcribe conversations, analyse them for patterns and to see whether patterns change over period of therapy Libby Clark Libby Clark Research is in conjunction with Sarah Lock from the Royal Canberra Hospital

19 Conversation analysis of dementia patients. Analysing conversations collected in Dementia Assessment Clinic at University of Melbourne to identify patterns of interaction that are relevant to assessment of dementia. Any topic to do with the curriculum or clinical programme in CSU speech pathology and its relevance to rural practice in Australia Promoting speech and language development in childhood for better health and wellbeing in later life. This is a broad framework under which students may wish to research areas of interest. Some suggestions would include: Evaluation of schools project activities long term Developing health promotion programme relating to early speech and language skills Building oral stories resources Using songs for developing phonemic awareness and social interaction skills Libby Clark Libby Clark Libby Clark Research is in conjunction with Ian Thompson University of Melbourne