Dataset Information

Knowledge and perceptions of cardiopulmonary resuscitation amongst New Zealand podiatrists: a web-based survey.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Podiatrists in New Zealand have a duty of care to assist patients in an emergency, and current cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification is a requirement for registration. However, it is unknown how competent and confident podiatrists are in administering CPR and how they would respond in an emergency. Having a health professional who has a competent knowledge of CPR and skills in basic life support, can improve survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest. Therefore, the aim of this study was to survey New Zealand podiatrists to determine their CPR knowledge and qualifications; beliefs about the application of CPR; and perceptions of their competency in CPR.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used a web-based survey. Participants were New Zealand registered podiatrists with a current annual practising certificate. The 31-item survey included questions to elicit demographic information, CPR practice and attitudes, and CPR knowledge. Responses were collected between March and August 2020.

Results

171 podiatrists responded to the survey. 16 % of the podiatrists (n = 28) had performed CPR in an emergency, with a 50 % success rate. Participants were predominantly female (n = 127, 74 %) and working in private practice (n = 140,82 %). Nearly half of respondents were younger than 40 years (n = 75,44 %) and had less than 10 years of clinical experience (n = 73, 43 %). Nearly all (n = 169,97 %) participants had received formal CPR training in the past two years, with 60 % (n = 105) receiving training in the past 12 months. Most respondents (n = 167,98 %) self-estimated their CPR ability as being effective, very effective, or extremely effective. Participants' knowledge of CPR was variable, with the percentage of correct answers for CPR protocol statements ranging between 20 and 90 %.

Conclusions

This study provides the first insight into New Zealand podiatrists' CPR knowledge and perceptions. Podiatrists were found to have high levels of CPR confidence but demonstrated gaps in CPR knowledge. Currently, New Zealand registered podiatrists require biennial CPR re-certification. However, resuscitation authorities in New Zealand and overseas recommend an annual update of CPR skills. Based on this study's findings, and in line with Australia and the United Kingdom, the authors recommend a change from biennial to annual CPR re-certification for podiatrists in New Zealand.

Trial registration

The study was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ( ACTRN12620001144909 ).

SUBMITTER: Brenton-Rule A

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8120252 | biostudies-literature |

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

ACCESS DATA

Similar Datasets

Project description:BackgroundAotearoa New Zealand (NZ) registered podiatrists are required to participate in a mandatory continuing professional development (CPD) programme. This study investigated podiatrist's perceptions and satisfaction surrounding mandatory CPD requirements following the implementation of a new 2-year CPD programme.MethodsA cross-sectional study of NZ registered podiatrists was conducted between October 9th and December 9th, 2020. Data was collected using a web-based survey. The 39-item survey included questions to elicit participant characteristics, perceptions of CPD, difficulties undertaking CPD, and satisfaction with the new CPD programme. The survey findings were reported using descriptive statistics and conventional content analysis.ResultsOne hundred and thirty-four podiatrists completed the survey. Most respondents worked in private practice (n = 107, 80 %), were in full-time employment (n = 83, 62 %), and had greater than 16 years of work experience (n = 73, 54 %). Respondents agreed it was important to engage in CPD (n = 126, 94 %) and reported that knowledge gained from CPD contributed to their daily work (n = 78, 58 %). 44 % (n = 58) reported difficulties keeping up to date with CPD. The main barriers to CPD participation reported were workload (n = 90, 67 %) and lack of time (n = 84, 63 %). Three categories (understanding the CPD programme; access to CPD; and time to complete CPD) were identified from the qualitative analysis to describe why it was difficult to meet CPD requirements.ConclusionsNZ podiatrists value CPD and are satisfied with most aspects of the mandatory CPD programme apart from the hours attributed to compulsory activities. The current approach to cultural safety CPD requires revision, with a move away from a time-based approach to a system that promotes an understanding and relevance to practice. Lack of time, practice workload, financial barriers, geographical location, and employment context were factors that influenced a practitioner's ability to engage in CPD. Facilitation of CPD activities that are flexible to ensure relevance to the practitioner's specific work within their scope of practice, and that can occur in the workplace environment, may address barriers and increase engagement with to CPD activities.

Project description:Background:Foot orthoses are frequently used but little is known about which types are used in contemporary practice. This study aimed to explore the types of foot orthoses currently used by podiatrists and the prescription variations in a range of conditions. Methods:A web-based, cross-sectional survey was distributed through professional bodies in the United Kingdom (UK), Australia, and New Zealand. Questions focussed on foot orthosis prescription habits in relation to 26 conditions affecting the back and lower limb. Results:Two hundred and sixty-four podiatrists practising in 19 different countries completed the survey; the majority practised in the UK (47%, n?=?124), Australia (30%, n?=?79) and New Zealand (12%, n?=?32). Respondents qualified between 1968 and 2016, and 147 (56%) were female. Respondents worked in different healthcare sectors and this varied between countries: 42 (34%) respondents in the UK worked solely in the public sector, compared to 3 (4%) in Australia and 2 (6%) in New Zealand. Forty-four (35%) respondents in the UK worked solely in private practice, compared to 64 (81%) in Australia and 14 (44%) in New Zealand.UK respondents prescribed more prefabricated orthoses per week (mean 5.5 pairs) than simple insole-type devices (±2.7) and customised devices (±2.9). Similarly, respondents in New Zealand prescribed more prefabricated orthoses per week (±7.7) than simple (±1.4) and customised (±2.8) devices. In contrast, those in Australia prescribed more customised orthoses per week (±4.4) than simple (±0.8) and prefabricated (±1.9) orthoses. Differences in the types of orthoses prescribed were observed between country of practice, working sector, and the condition targeted. Generally, prefabricated orthoses were commonly prescribed for the 26 highlighted conditions in the UK and New Zealand. Australian podiatrists prescribed far fewer devices overall, but when they did prescribe, they were more likely to prescribe custom devices. Respondents in all three countries were more likely to prescribe customised orthoses for people with diabetes complicated by peripheral neuropathy than for diabetes without this complication. Conclusions:Foot orthosis prescription habits vary between countries. Prefabricated orthoses were frequently prescribed in the UK and New Zealand, and customised orthoses in Australia. Prescriptions for people with diabetes differed depending on the presence of neuropathy, despite a lack of robust evidence supporting these decisions. This study provides new insight into contemporary practice.

Project description:IntroductionBurnout and occupational stress have not yet been explored within the Aotearoa New Zealand (AoNZ) podiatry workforce despite research suggesting an increased risk among this population. This study aimed to: (i) determine the prevalence and severity of burnout risk and occupational stress among AoNZ podiatrists; (ii) determine the factors associated with burnout risk and occupational stress among AoNZ podiatrists; and (iii) examine the relationship between burnout risk and occupational stress.MethodsA cross-sectional online survey study was undertaken involving registered podiatrists practicing in AoNZ. Personal and professional demographic characteristics were captured. Participants also completed the Maslach Burnout Inventory (assessing three domains of emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation and personal accomplishment) and the Workplace Stress Scale as measures of burnout risk and occupational stress, respectively. Descriptive statistics, multiple regression analyses and correlation analyses were performed to address the research aims.ResultsResponses from 112 AoNZ podiatrists were included in the analyses. High levels of emotional exhaustion were identified in 43.8% of practitioners and were associated with physical activity status, sector of work, working in isolation and work hours (R2 = 0.304, F (8, N = 110) = 5.519, p < 0.001). High levels of depersonalisation were seen in 13.4% of practitioners and were associated with patient caseload and work hours, (R2 = 0.183, F (4, N = 108) = 5.770, p < 0.001). Low levels of personal accomplishment were observed in 8.9% of practitioners and associated with ethnicity, physical activity status and patient caseload, (R2 = 0.152, F (5, N = 106) = 3.577, p < 0.005). A total of 27.7% of practitioners exhibited an overall moderate to high risk of developing burnout. Over a fifth of practitioners exhibited stress at severe or dangerous levels. Stress levels were significantly associated with physical activity status, sector of work and management responsibility, (R2 = 0.282, F (5, N = 47) = 3.218, p = 0.15). A strong positive relationship was found between emotional exhaustion and stress (rho = 0.59, p < 0.001).ConclusionsThe findings reflect a moderate to severe risk of developing burnout within the workforce, with high workloads and collegial isolation constituting the primary modifiable factors driving burnout development. To maintain retention and well-being within the workforce, mitigation strategies must be implemented to address this issue.

Project description:BackgroundUltrasound in podiatry practice encompasses musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging, vascular hand-held Doppler ultrasound and therapeutic ultrasound. Sonography practice is not regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), with no requirement to hold a formal qualification. The College of Podiatry does not currently define ultrasound training and competencies.This study aimed to determine the current use of ultrasound, training received and mentorship received and/or provided by podiatrists using ultrasound.MethodsA quantitative study utilising a cross-sectional, on-line, single-event survey was undertaken within the UK.ResultsCompleted surveys were received from 284 podiatrists; 173 (70%) use ultrasound as part of their general practice, 139 (49%) for musculoskeletal problems, 131 (46%) for vascular assessment and 39 (14%) to support their surgical practice. Almost a quarter (n = 62) worked for more than one organisation; 202 (71%) were employed by the NHS and/or private sector (n = 118, 41%).Nearly all (93%) respondents report using a hand-held vascular Doppler in their daily practice; 216 (82%) to support decisions regarding treatment options, 102 (39%) to provide diagnostic reports for other health professionals, and 34 (13%) to guide nerve blocks.Ultrasound imaging was used by 104 (37%) respondents primarily to aid clinical decision making (n = 81) and guide interventions (steroid injections n = 67; nerve blocks n = 39). Ninety-three percent stated they use ultrasound imaging to treat their own patients, while others scan at the request of other podiatrists (n = 28) or health professionals (n = 18). Few use ultrasound imaging for research (n = 7) or education (n = 2).Only 32 (11%) respondents (n = 20 private sector) use therapeutic ultrasound to treat patients presenting with musculoskeletal complaints, namely tendon pathologies.Few respondents (18%) had completed formal post-graduate CASE (Consortium for the Accreditation of Sonographic Education) accredited ultrasound courses.Forty (14%) respondents receive ultrasound mentorship; the majority from fellow podiatrists (n = 17) or medical colleagues (n = 15). Over half (n = 127) who do not have ultrasound mentorship indicated they would like a mentor predominantly for ultrasound imaging. Fifty-five (19%) report they currently provide ultrasound mentorship for others.ConclusionsUnderstanding the scope of ultrasound practice, the training undertaken and the requirements for mentorship will underpin the development of competencies and recommendations defined by the College of Podiatry to support professional development and ensure safe practice.

Project description:IntroductionDiabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are commonly contaminated with pathogenic organisms and precede most diabetes-related amputations. Antimicrobial dressings are used in the treatment of DFUs; however, recent guidelines do not support their use. There are no data describing the experience of antimicrobial dressing use among podiatrists in Aotearoa New Zealand (AoNZ). This study aimed to (i) determine which antimicrobial dressings podiatrists in AoNZ use for the management of diabetic foot ulcers; and (ii) determine what factors influence AoNZ podiatrists' use of antimicrobial dressing when managing DFUs.MethodsAn anonymous cross-sectional web-based survey was undertaken. Participants were AoNZ registered podiatrists who managed DFUs in their practice. The survey included questions relating to personal and professional demographic characteristics and DFU management and dressing practices. Descriptive statistics were computed to address the research aims.ResultsResponses from 43 AoNZ podiatrists were included. Participants reported both cadexomer iodine and silver dressings were the most common antimicrobial dressings used, with honey dressings being the least frequently used. The most influential factors in choosing antimicrobial dressings when managing DFUs were the presence of current infection, ulcer exudate and ability to prevent future infection. The least influential factors in choosing antimicrobial dressings when managing DFUs were patient preferences, cost of dressings and comfort of dressing/pain on removal.ConclusionsAoNZ podiatrists managing DFUs primarily use antimicrobial dressings containing cadexomer iodine or silver as active ingredients, while lower-cost options, such as honey and povidone iodine are less often used. Current recommendations highlight the lack of evidence to support positive outcomes from any particular antimicrobial dressing over another and advocate that exudate control, comfort and cost be prioritised in decision-making. As cost has been an increasing burden to our healthcare funding, clinicians and organisations may consider this before purchasing and stocking expensive dressings.

Project description:ObjectivesCardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is lifesaving. Yet, cardiac arrest survival remains low despite CPR intervention. Education has been highlighted as a strategy to overcome this issue. Virtual Reality technology has been gaining momentum in the field of clinical education. Published studies report benefits of virtual reality for CPR education; yet, perceptions of CPR instructors towards virtual reality remain unexplored. CPR instructors are key stakeholders in CPR education and their perceptions are valuable for the design and adoption of virtual reality-enhanced learning. The purpose of this study is therefore to understand the perceptions of CPR instructors towards using virtual reality for health professionals' CPR education. The aim was addressed via three research questions: (1) What are the perceptions of CPR instructors towards current health professionals' CPR education? (2) What are the perceptions of CPR instructors towards features of virtual reality ideal for health professionals' CPR education? (3) What are the perceptions of CPR instructors towards the potential role of virtual reality in health professionals' CPR education?MethodsA total of 30 CPR instructors were surveyed on their views towards current health professionals' CPR education and the use of virtual reality for health professionals' CPR education, before and after interacting with a CPR virtual reality simulation. Responses were analysed using interpretative thematic analysis.ResultsCPR instructors perceived current health professionals' CPR education as limited due to unideal test preparation (resources, practice, motivation, and frame of mind) and performance. They perceived fidelity, engagement, resource conservation, and memory enhancement as features of virtual reality ideal for health professionals' CPR education. Virtual reality was viewed by CPR instructors as having potential as a blended learning tool, targeting both 'novice' and 'experienced' health professionals.ConclusionThe study highlighted the gaps in current health professionals' CPR education that can be addressed using virtual-reality-enabled learning. Future research could investigate virtual reality simulations with features desirable for CPR education of target populations.