Going the distance: Developing shared web-based learning programmes

Despite a high demand for continuing professional education, it is becoming more challenging to provide education in a resource-limited environment that meets the varied needs of learners. The advent of user-friendly, interactive communication technology led the University of British Columbia in Canada to explore the feasibility of developing a web-based distance learning programme shared by undergraduate and practising therapists to address this problem. Potential benefits and challenges of distance learning, undergraduate web-learning, pilot-test results and an assessment of therapists’ interests and needs are profiled.     

Calorie restriction in nonhuman primates: mechanisms of reduced morbidity and mortality

Long term chronic calorie restriction (CR) of adult nonhuman primates significantly reduces morbidity and increases median age of death. The present review is focused upon an ongoing study of sustained adult- onset calorie restriction, which has been underway for 15 years. Monkeys, initially calorie restricted at about 10 years of age, are now approximately 25 years old. The median life span of these restricted monkeys is increasing, now exceeding that of ad libitum (AL)-fed monkeys. In our laboratory, maximum life span for AL-fed monkeys appears to be about 40 years. Thus, whether CR can also increase maximal life span, as it does in rodents, cannot be determined for at least another 15 years. The earliest detectable positive benefit on morbidity in these monkeys was previously reported as the prevention of obesity. Current evidence, as reviewed here, suggests that much obesity- associated morbidity is also mitigated by sustained calorie restraint in nonhuman primates. Furthermore, probably because of the prevention of obesity, diabetes has also been prevented. Recent findings include the identification of extraordinary changes in the glycogen synthesis pathway, and on the phosphorylation of glycogen synthase in response to insulin. This calorie restriction-induced prevention of morbidity does not require excessive leanness, but is clearly present when body fat is within the normal range of 10 to 22%, and this is likely to be true in humans as well.      

Lifestyle behaviours and weight among hospital-based nurses

Aims  The purpose of this study was to (i) describe the weight, weight-related perceptions and lifestyle behaviours of hospital-based nurses, and (ii) explore the relationship of demographic, health, weight and job characteristics with lifestyle behaviours.
Background  The obesity epidemic is widely documented. Worksite initiatives have been advocated. Nurses represent an important part of the hospital workforce and serve as role models when caring for patients.
Methods  A sample of 194 nurses from six hospitals participated in anthropometric measurements and self-administered surveys.
Results  The majority of nurses were overweight and obese, and some were not actively involved in weight management behaviours. Self-reported health, diet and physical activity behaviours were low, although variable by gender, age and shift. Reports of co-worker norms supported low levels of healthy behaviours.
Conclusions  Findings reinforce the need to address the hospital environment and culture as well as individual behaviours for obesity control.
Implications for nursing management  Nurse managers have an opportunity to consider interventions that promote a climate favourable to improved health habits by facilitating and supporting healthy lifestyle choices (nutrition and physical activity) and environmental changes. Such efforts have the potential to increase productivity and morale and decrease work-related disabilities and improve quality of life.     

Poststroke Shoulder Pain: Inevitable or Preventable?

Cerebral vascular accident or stroke is recognized as the leading cause of disability in the United States; consequently, it is important that all healthcare professionals working with this population develop competency of care to promote functional recovery. One of the most profound effects of stroke is upper‐extremity dysfunction. With correct handling, proper positioning, and ongoing patient‐caregiver education, healthcare professionals can positively influence upper‐extremity recovery and prevention of poststroke shoulder pain. In doing so, they will help patients avoid the mass effect that pain can impart on daily routines. The purposes of this article are to describe poststroke shoulder pain, discuss possible causes of shoulder pain, and detail best practices nurses can use to prevent or minimize poststroke shoulder pain.