Promoting positive outcomes for elderly persons in the hospital: prevention and risk factor modification

The hospitalized elderly are at an increased risk for poor outcomes such as increased length of stay, readmissions, functional decline, and iatrogenic complications, as compared with other age groups. Research related to the hospitalized elderly has identified factors associated with poor outcomes. Nurses and other healthcare team members may be able to identify elderly patients at risk for poor outcomes and target modifiable factors to minimize their negative impact. Clinical experience and research validate the conclusion that multidimensional, preventive risk factor modification balanced with acute illness treatment can result in positive outcomes for elderly patients.     

An overview of three different approaches to the interpretation of qualitative data. Part 1: Theoretical issues

In this paper, the first of two, Helena Priest, Paula Roberts and Leslie Woods discuss the essential features and methods inherent within three approaches to the interpretation of qualitative data. An overview of three methodologies commonly used in nursing and healthcare research is presented: grounded theory, qualitative content analysis and narrative analysis. The paper considers the philosophical bases of the three methods and the principles inherent within each analytical approach. Key stages and steps are presented and described.     

An overview of three different approaches to the interpretation of qualitative data. Part 2: Practical illustrations

This paper continues the discussion of the essential features and methods inherent within three approaches to the interpretation of qualitative data presented in Part 1 (Priest et al 2002). Leslie Woods, Helena Priest and Paula Roberts explore the use of grounded theory, qualitative content analysis and narrative analysis through the use of an illustrative example.     

The suitability of head-of-implant and conventional abutment impression techniques for implant-retained three unit bridges: an in vitro study

This study compares the accuracy of master casts produced from impressions of implants using an abutment or a head-of-implant technique. The method used a Tandem Scanning Confocal Microscope to measure the dimensions of the gap between master casts produced by the two impression techniques and a custom made bridge. The median gap of 14 microns (interquartile range 10-17.9 microns) on the non-screwed side of the abutment impression was greater than the median gap of 7.5 microns (5-17.6 microns) for the head-of-implant impression and this difference was statistically significant (P < 0.005). In addition, the median gap on the screwed down side of the abutment impression of 10 microns, (6.3-12.1 microns) was greater than that of the head-of-implant of 5.5 microns (0.0-8.0 microns) and this difference was also statistically significant (P < 0.001). The head-of-implant impression produced a more accurate fit than the conventional abutment impression.