An information and research blog for health professionals, compiled by the staff of District Library Services - MNCLHD
MNCLHD
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Tuesday, March 04, 2025
Happy Mardi Gras!
Spotlight on LGBTQIA+ Health Resources
"I
wrote this book to provide nurses from all practice settings and experience
levels the knowledge and understanding of how to care for the LGBTQ population.
The first of its kind, this book offers the nurse concise and pragmatic
information to deliver culturally competent and inclusive care. Lesbian, gay,
bisexual, transgender, queer, and other gender minorities (LGBTQ) face unique
challenges and barriers to accessing healthcare, resulting in poor health
outcomes. Studies have consistently shown the greater risk for poor health
outcomes due to fear or mistrust of healthcare providers, such as nurses,
because of past discrimination and refusal of care and acceptance, which have
created systemic health disparities. Nursing textbooks and education
predominantly focus on cisgender heteronormative populations - leaving the
nurse without the knowledge and information needed to care for this diverse
population" – Tyler Traister
This is
an illustrated children's book that makes gender identity, sexual orientation
and family diversity easy to explain to children. Throughout the book kids
learn that there are many kinds of people in the world and that diversity is
something to be celebrated. It covers gender, romantic orientation,
discrimination, intersectionality, privilege, and how to stand up for what's
right. With charming illustrations, clear explanations, and short sections that
can be dipped in and out of, this book helps children think about how to create
a kinder, more tolerant world.
Transgender health : a practitioner's guide to binary and non-binary trans patient care by Ben Vincent (available in hardcopy or eBook)
Rainbow Resource for Mental Health Care from NSW Health's Agency for Clinical Innovation
"A toolkit for child and adolescent mental health clinicians
supporting LGBTIQ+ young people and their families. This resource offers guidance for mental health
clinicians to understand the needs of LGBTIQ+ young people and effectively
support their mental health and wellbeing through affirming, best-practice
care."
ACON is an LGBTQIA+ Community Organisation that focuses on the health of its community. They have metropolitan and regional branches as well as many online resources.
Wednesday, February 26, 2025
Spotlight on Resources: New eBooks!
Access these titles and more via our Discovery site.
ACLS Review Made Incredibly Easy! 4th Edition (2023)
The 4th Edition of ACLS Review Made Incredibly Easy! is filled with simple definitions and clear, step-by-step instructions on the newest algorithms. It provides the confidence to pass the ACLS certification exam and equips you with the necessary knowledge and skills for advanced cardiac life support.
Anatomy & Physiology Made Incredibly Easy! 6th Edition (2023)
The 8th Edition of Fluids & Electrolytes Made Incredibly Easy® is your go-to quick-reference guide for mastering fluids and electrolytes throughout your nursing career—whether in class, on the unit, preparing for the NCLEX®, or needing a refresher. This invaluable resource, written in the engaging Incredibly Easy® style, makes essential information both approachable and entertaining, while clarifying real-world applications. Step-by-step instructions build your confidence in balancing fluids and electrolytes, understanding fluid imbalances and related disorders, treating imbalances, and more. Helpful tips reinforce key concepts, provide important care reminders, and enhance your problem-solving and patient teaching skills. This thoroughly updated 8th Edition includes the latest insights and practices to ensure your success in today's nursing practice and beyond.
Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Spotlight on a CiAP Resource
Clinical Equipment User Manual Library
Having problems with a Medical Device? This handy tool
is available via CiAP and houses the user manuals for a wide range of Clinical
Equipment.
To access: go to CiAP and click on tools.
The Clinical Equipment User Manual Library is
at the top of the middle column.
And download the guide!
Wednesday, February 12, 2025
Welcome to our New Graduate Nurses!
The first cohort of New Grads have started at MNCLHD
for 2025. Below are some resources that interest
them as they adjust to their new role.
From Novice to Expert: Excellence and Power in Clinic
Nursing Practice / Patricia Benner
Benner’s seminal text remains pertinent to all nurses,
especially those beginning their practice as it highlights how a newcomer to
the profession or specialty develops their skills, knowledge and clinical
judgement to eventually become an expert.
How to Survive and Maybe Even Love Your Life as a
Nurse / Kelli S. Dunham & Staci J. Smith
Guides the reader from graduation to their initial
nursing position and onward to a thriving, rewarding nursing career. It acts as
both a mentor and a cheerleader, offering guidance and support to new nurses
throughout their journey from student to assured professional.
Just Sit: A Meditation Guidebook for People Who Know
They Should But Don’t / Sukey & Elizabeth Novogratz
This engaging and informative meditation guidebook
features playful illustrations and is designed for ease of use. It includes an
eight-week plan tailored for busy beginners, helping even the most hectic
schedules integrate meditation and reap its numerous physical and emotional
rewards.
The Library!
Drop in or visit our website to discover what we have
to offer. Borrow one of the above books
or another text relevant to the specialty you are working in.
Monday, February 10, 2025
In the literature - Workplace Violence and Job Stress
Workplace Violence and Job Stress
The article, titled "The
effects of workplace violence on the job stress of health care workers:
buffering effects of wellbeing HRM practices," explores how workplace
violence impacts job stress among healthcare workers and how wellbeing-oriented
human resource management (HRM) practices can help mitigate these effects. The
study, grounded in the conservation of resources theory, examines data from
healthcare workers in Australia and China 1. It finds that wellbeing
HRM practices can moderate the relationship between workplace violence and job
stress, ultimately improving the quality of care provided by healthcare workers
1.
To support stressed
healthcare workers, there are several free government resources available:
1. Patricia Pariona-Cabrera, Timothy Bartram, Jillian Cavanagh, Beni Halvorsen, Bo Shao & Feifei Yang (2024) The effects of workplace violence on the job stress of health care workers: buffering effects of wellbeing HRM practices, The International Journal of Human Resource Management, 35:9, 1654-1680, DOI: 10.1080/09585192.2023.2237876
2.
Head to Health: Provides a Stress
Management Program based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) principles,
available online for free.
3.
icare: Offers stress management
strategies specifically for healthcare workers, including tips on self-care,
communication, and support from colleagues and leaders.
4. Wellbeing and Staff Support offers links to a range of programs to support the health and wellbeing of NSW Health staff in the Mid North Coast Local Health District.
These resources can
help healthcare workers manage stress and improve their mental wellbeing.
In addition District Library services has these books and more that you can read to inspire your self care journey.
Mindful self-compassion for burnout : tools to help you heal and recharge when you're wrung out by stress / Kristin Neff, PhD, Christopher Germer, PhD.
Every doctor : healthier doctors = healthier patients / Leanne Rowe, Michael Kidd, Vihangi Abeygunawardana.
Breath : the new science of a lost art / James Nestor.
Do less be more : ban busy and make space for what matters / Martina Sheehan & Susan Pearse.
The article referenced is available through Open Access online. MNCLHD staff can contact the library if they have any problems downloading the full article or would like to borrow any of the above books.
Friday, January 31, 2025
Supporting the Health of Australian Veterans
Introduction
The health and well-being of Australian veterans is a topic
of paramount importance. With nearly 600,000 veterans in Australia,
representing 2.8% of the population aged 15 years and over, understanding their
unique health needs is crucial for providing effective medical care and
support.
Key Statistics on Australian Veterans
- Population:
As of the latest census, there are 581,139 Australians who have served or
are currently serving in the Australian Defence Force (ADF). This includes
496,276 former serving members and 84,865 current serving members.
- Demographics:
The largest age group among veterans is 65-74 years, with 90% of these
veterans being male. Additionally, 13.4% of the veteran population are
female.
- Geographical
Distribution: Townsville, home to the largest Army base in the
country, has the highest number of veterans (8,700) and current serving
ADF members (5,500).
Health Challenges Faced by Veterans
Veterans often face unique health challenges due to their
service. Common issues include:
- Mental
Health: Conditions such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety are prevalent
among veterans. The Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) provides
extensive mental health support, including counselling and rehabilitation
services.
- Physical
Health: Injuries sustained during service can lead to chronic pain and
mobility issues. The DVA offers treatment and rehabilitation programs to
help veterans manage these conditions.
- Access
to Healthcare: Veterans are entitled to treatment at departmental
expense through the DVA Gold or White card system. These cards cover a
range of medical services, ensuring veterans receive the care they need.
Support Services for Veterans
The Australian government provides a variety of support
services to veterans, including:
- Pension
and Compensation: Veterans may be eligible for pensions and
compensation under the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA), Military
Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA), and Safety, Rehabilitation
and Compensation (Defence-related Claims) Act 1988 (DRCA).
- Employment
and Education: Programs are available to help veterans transition to
civilian life, including employment assistance and educational
opportunities.
- Community
Engagement: Veterans are more likely to participate in volunteer work
compared to the general population, highlighting their ongoing
contributions to the community.
Suicide and Suicidality in Australian Defence Force
Veterans
Increased suicidality and suicide deaths among veterans of
the Australian Defence Force have gained recent prominence. A systematic
scoping review identified several key findings:
- Increased
Suicidality: Findings indicate increased suicidality in the veteran
population, particularly during the transition out of the military.
- Mental
Illness: Mental illness, especially depression and PTSD, is a
significant risk factor for suicide and suicidality.
- Protective
Factors: Current military service was identified as a protective
factor against suicide.
- Research
Gaps: Gaps were identified in understanding the relative contributions
to risk from transition, psychosocial correlates, and health service
utilization.
Veterans' Wellbeing Network Programs MNCLHD
The Veterans' Wellbeing Network Mid North Coast (VWNMNC) offers
a variety of programs aimed at supporting the wellbeing of veterans and their
families. These programs include:
- Hospital
and Home Visits: Wellbeing Advocates visit hospitals, homes, and aged
care facilities as needed.
- Bereavement
Support: Assistance during times of loss.
- Liaison
Services: Coordination with local government bodies, the Department of
Veterans' Affairs, and other relevant organizations.
- Transitional
Management: Support for discharging Australian Defence Force
personnel.
Health Pathways Veterans Health Pages
The Health Pathways team has developed new Veterans Health
pages to help clinicians assess and address the specific health needs of
veterans. These pages include:
- Veterans’
Health Assessment
- Veteran
Care Practice Management
- Guide
to DVA Compensation Claim Forms
- Veteran
Referral and Support
- Defence
and Veteran Family Support
These pathways provide detailed information on navigating
various services and programs available to veterans, including mental health
support, treatment for service-related injuries, and guidance on DVA billing.
Link to Mid North Coast Local Health District
The Veterans' Wellbeing Network and the Health Pathways
Veterans Health pages are both integral parts of the support system for
veterans in the Mid North Coast Local Health District. The Veterans' Wellbeing
Network collaborates with the Health Pathways team to ensure that veterans
receive comprehensive care and support. This collaboration helps streamline
access to health services, making it easier for veterans to find and utilize
the resources they need.
Conclusion
Understanding and addressing the health needs of Australian
veterans is essential for their well-being. By providing comprehensive medical
care and support services, we can honour their service and ensure they lead
healthy, fulfilling lives.
For more information on veteran support services, visit the Department of Veterans' Affairs
References
- Australian
Bureau of Statistics. (2021). Census of Population and Housing: Reflecting
Australia - Stories from the Census, 2021
- Health
services for the veteran community. Department of Veterans' Affairs
- Oltvolgyi,
C. G., Meurk, C., & Heffernan, E. (2024). Suicide and suicidality in
Australian Defence Force veterans: A systematic scoping review. Australian
& New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry
- Veterans' Wellbeing Network Programs
- Health Pathways Veterans Health Pages
4
Friday, January 24, 2025
How Healthcare Workers Can Help Increase Childhood Immunisation Rates
Recent statistics show a concerning decline in childhood immunisation rates in Australia 1. As of June 2024, only 92.82% of one-year-olds and 91.10% of two-year-olds are fully immunised, falling short of the national target of 95% 1. This drop in immunisation rates poses a significant public health risk, as herd immunity is compromised, making outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases more likely 2. Healthcare workers play a crucial role in reversing this trend and ensuring that children receive the necessary vaccinations. Here are some ways they can contribute:
1. Education and Awareness
Healthcare workers are trusted sources of information for parents and caregivers. By providing clear, accurate, and consistent information about the importance of vaccines, the safety of immunisations, and the risks of vaccine-preventable diseases, they can help dispel myths and misinformation. Educational materials, such as brochures, posters, and social media posts, can be effective tools in this effort.
2. Personalised Communication
Every parent has unique concerns and questions about vaccines. Healthcare workers should take the time to listen to these concerns and provide personalized answers. Building a trusting relationship with parents can make a significant difference in their decision to vaccinate their children. This approach includes discussing the benefits of vaccines, addressing any fears, and providing reassurance.
3. Accessible Vaccination Services
Making vaccination services easily accessible is crucial. Healthcare workers can advocate for and support the establishment of more vaccination clinics, including mobile clinics that can reach remote or underserved areas. Offering flexible hours, walk-in appointments, and reducing wait times can also encourage more parents to get their children vaccinated.
4. Community Engagement
Engaging with the community through events, workshops, and partnerships with local organizations can raise awareness about the importance of immunisation. Healthcare workers can participate in community health fairs, school programs, and local media to spread the message. Collaborating with community leaders and influencers can also amplify the reach of immunisation campaigns.
5. Monitoring and Follow-Up
Keeping track of immunisation schedules and following up with parents can help ensure that children receive all necessary vaccines on time. Healthcare workers can use reminder systems, such as phone calls, text messages, or emails, to notify parents about upcoming vaccinations. Regular monitoring and follow-up can help identify and address any gaps in immunisation coverage.
6. Advocacy for Policy Support
Healthcare workers can advocate for policies that support higher immunisation rates. This includes supporting legislation that mandates vaccinations for school entry, providing funding for immunisation programs, and ensuring that vaccines are affordable and accessible to all families. By being vocal supporters of immunisation policies, healthcare workers can influence positive change at the local and national levels.
7. Leading by Example
Healthcare workers themselves should be vaccinated and can share their own vaccination experiences with patients and the community. By demonstrating their trust in vaccines, they can help build confidence in immunisation programs. Leading by example can be a powerful motivator for parents who may be hesitant about vaccinating their children.
In conclusion, healthcare workers have a vital role in increasing childhood immunisation rates in Australia. Through education, personalized communication, accessible services, community engagement, monitoring, advocacy, and leading by example, they can help ensure that more children are protected from vaccine-preventable diseases. By working together, healthcare professionals can make a significant impact on public health and the well-being of future generations.
References:
Wednesday, January 22, 2025
Welcome to the new JMOs!
As the library welcomes the new JMOs to the Mid North Coast Local Health District for the new Term, we are putting a spotlight on relevant resources held by the library that might be useful at this stage of your career. To borrow/access these resources, drop in to one of our sites or contact us.
On call : principles and protocols / Shane A. Marshall and John Reudy.
"Ideal for any on-call professional, resident, or medical student, this highly templated, best-selling reference covers the common problems you’ll encounter while on call in the hospital. On Call Principles and Protocols, 7th Edition, by Drs. Shane A. Marshall and John Ruedy, provides key information in time-sensitive, challenging situations. You’ll gain speed, skill, and knowledge with every call - from diagnosing a difficult or life-threatening situation to prescribing the right medication.." --Publisher.
The Junior doctor survival guide / Paul Watson & Joseph M. O'Brien
The junior medical officer's guide to the hospital universe : a survival manual / John Shi.
The hands-on guide for junior doctors / Anna Donald, Michael Stein, Ciaran Scott Hill.
Every doctor : healthier doctors = healthier patients / Leanne Rowe, Michael Kidd, Vihangi Abeygunawardana.
"`Every Doctor' is about thriving in medicine at a time of massive advances and changes in global health systems and medical services. The book is a must-read for doctors of all specialties at all stages of their careers wherever they practise in the world, because exemplary care of patients, peers, profession and self is a lifelong journey." -- Publisher.
First do no harm : being a resilient doctor in the 21st century / Leanne Rowe and Michael Kidd.
"Refmes the traditional doctors' rule, demonstrating that it should apply not only to patients, but also to doctors themselves. With their extensive medical, professional and academic experience, Leanne Rowe and Michael Kidd have created a legacy to be shared with medical students, junior doctors and experienced medical practitioners across all medical specailties."
Monday, January 20, 2025
MNCLHD Staff Publications - December 24 to January 25
Congratulations to MNCLHD staff who have had their papers published!
Chia, J., A. Wilson, D. Law, M. Kelly and B. Lambert (2024). "The safety of same-day discharge following percutaneous coronary intervention in regional Australia." Internal Medical Journal 54(11): 1821-1826.
McLeod, K., R. Woodward-Kron, P. Rashid and D. Nestel (2024). ""A clean slate": Insights for improving remediation from the perspectives of underperforming surgical trainees." American Journal of Surgery 237: 115942.
Messa, R. M., M. A. Benfica, L. F. P. Ribeiro, C. M. Williams, S. R. E. Davidson and E. S. Alves (2024). "The effect of total sleep deprivation on autonomic nervous system and cortisol responses to acute stressors in healthy individuals: A systematic review." Psychoneuroendocrinology 168: 107114.
Qian, W. and M. Romero (2024). "Infected Haematoma Fistulating Through Adjacent Colorectal Anastomosis Mimicking an Anastomotic Leak." Cureus 16(11): e74136.
Sandford, M. J., J. G. Steel, J. R. Goodworth and P. J. Lodge (2024). "Quality management of head and neck patient treatments using statistical process control techniques." Phys Eng Sci Med 47(4): 1781-1787.
Tuesday, January 14, 2025
Rural Research Collaborative Learning Network - Epidemiology Education Opportunity!
Cause and
effect: an introduction to epidemiology
Seminar overview:
Confounded by confounders? Incensed by incidence rates? This session will provide an overview and introduction to epidemiology with practical examples for Australian health professionals and researchers. Epidemiology is the science and practice that describes and explains patterns of disease in populations. The information gained through epidemiological study of disease can help to prevent and control disease, and ultimately improve health.
Who should attend?
All NSW Health staff are welcome to attend.
Why should I attend?
This session has been designed for health professionals and
researchers who would like to become more familiar with epidemiological
principles, how to design and interpret epidemiological studies, or who want to
be able to critically appraise epidemiological studies.
During this session, we will cover:
-
General
epidemiological principles and terminology
-
Types
of epidemiological studies
-
Bias
and confounding
- Critical appraisal of epidemiological studies
Session date(s): Wednesday 5th
February 2025, 3:00pm-4:00pm (NSW), 2:00pm-3:00pm (QLD)
About the presenter:
The RR-CLaN is a rural led initiative that aims
to provide high-quality research education and training to healthcare staff
working in rural, regional and remote areas. Our aim is to provide you with the
education and training opportunities to build key skills in how to use and
undertake research to improve healthcare delivery.
RR-CLaN collaborators:
NSW: Central Coast
Local Health District; Far West Local Health District; Hunter New England Local
Health District; Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District; Mid North Coast
Local Health District; Murrumbidgee Local Health District; Nepean Blue
Mountains Local Health District; Northern New South Wales Local Health
District; Southern New South Wales Local Health District; Western New South
Wales Local Health District; Health Education and Training Institute (HETI).
QLD: Tropical Australian Academic Health Centre (supporting
Townsville Hospital and Health Service; Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and
Health Service; Mackay Hospital and Health Service; North West Hospital and
Health Service; Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service); Darling Downs
Health Innovation and Research Collaborative; Darling Downs Health and South
West Hospital and Health Service
Wednesday, January 08, 2025
The Importance of Health Libraries in Australia
Health libraries play a crucial role in the Australian healthcare system, providing invaluable resources and support to clinicians, researchers, and policy makers. These libraries are not just repositories of medical knowledge; they are dynamic hubs that enhance patient care, support professional development, and contribute to the overall health and wellbeing of the community.
Enhancing Patient Care
Health libraries are integral to improving patient outcomes. They provide access to a vast array of curated information resources, including journals, textbooks, databases, and point-of-care tools. These resources enable healthcare professionals to stay updated with the latest medical research and best practices, ensuring that patient care is based on the most current evidence[1]. Expert health librarians assist in conducting literature searches and providing relevant information, directly supporting evidence-based practice[1].
Supporting Professional Development
Health libraries offer managed study facilities equipped with computers, study spaces, and other essential amenities. These spaces are crucial for hospital staff engaged in professional development, further studies, or research[1]. Health librarians also provide training and support in using information resources effectively, which is particularly important for medical trainees who need to engage in research and publish their findings[1].
Facilitating Research and Innovation
Research is a cornerstone of medical advancement, and health libraries play a pivotal role in facilitating this process. They provide access to specialized databases and resources necessary for conducting systematic reviews and other research activities[1]. Health librarians collaborate with researchers from the start of their projects, ensuring that they have the information and support needed to produce high-quality research[1].
Promoting Health and Wellbeing
Beyond their role in hospitals, health libraries contribute to the broader health and wellbeing of the community. Public libraries, for instance, offer programs and resources that support literacy, lifelong learning, and community connection[2]. Engaging with public libraries has been shown to improve individuals' subjective health and wellbeing, providing a safe and comfortable space for learning and social interaction[2].
Economic Benefits
Investing in health libraries also makes economic sense. A cost-benefit analysis of Victorian public libraries revealed that the annual benefits generated are twice the annual provisioning costs[2]. This demonstrates that health libraries not only support the healthcare system but also provide significant economic value to the community.
Conclusion
Health libraries are indispensable to the Australian healthcare landscape. They enhance patient care, support professional development, facilitate research, and promote community health and wellbeing. By investing in and supporting these vital institutions, we can ensure that they continue to provide these essential services and contribute to a healthier, more informed society.
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Library Resources!
Spotlight on Addiction
Oxford handbook of addiction medicine / John B. Saunders, Corinne M. Lim.
From bud to brain : a psychiatrist's view of marijuana / Timmen L. Cermak.
The recovery handbook : understanding addictions and evidenced-based treatment practices / Nicholas D. Young, Melissa A. Mumby, Jennifer A. Smolinski.
The ASAM principles of addiction medicine [electronic resource] / senior editor, Shannon C. Miller ; associate editors, David A. Fiellin, Richard N. Rosenthal, and Richard Saitz.
The Cambridge handbook of substance and behavioral addictions edited by Steve Sussman.
Clinical manual of youth addictive disorders / edited by Yifrah Kaminer, Ken C. Winters
Addiction Journal
01/1997 - Current (with gaps)
Addiction publishes peer-reviewed research reports on pharmalogical and behavioural addictions, bringing together research conducted within many different disciplines. The publication is an official journal of the Society for the Study of Addiction, and has been in publication since 1884.