JCUCHS hosts visiting students from Duquesne University, USA

Yesterday JCU College of Healthcare Sciences welcomed health science students from Duquesne University, Pittsburgh USA, touring the facilities at JCU Cairns campus.

Students from Duquesne University, Pittsburgh USA, visit the nursing labs

A/Prof Ruth Barker talks about State of the Tropics to Duquesne Uni health science students

Publication: Identifying the physical and anthropometric qualities explanatory of paddling adolescents

Sinclair, Wade H., Leicht, Anthony S., Eady, Troy W., Marshall, Nick J., and Woods, Carl T. (2017) Identifying the physical and anthropometric qualities explanatory of paddling adolescents. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/48868/

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to identify the physical and/or anthropometric qualities explanatory of adolescent surf lifesavers participating in paddling activities.

Design: Cross-sectional observational study.

Methods: A total of 53 (14-18 y) male participants were recruited and classified into two groups; paddlers (n = 30; actively participating in paddling), non-paddlers (n = 23; not actively participating in paddling). All participants completed a testing battery that consisted of 16 physical (isometric strength and muscular endurance) and anthropometric (height, mass, segment lengths and breadths) assessments. Binary logistic regression models and receiver operating characteristic curves were built to identify the physical and/or anthropometric qualities most explanatory of paddling status (two levels: 1 = paddlers, 0 = non-paddlers).

Results: Significant between group differences were noted for 13 of the 16 assessments (P<0.05; d = 0.59-1.25). However, it was the combination of horizontal shoulder abduction isometric strength, body mass, and sitting height that provided the greatest association with paddling status (Akaike Information Criterion = 47.13). This full model successfully detected 87% and 70% of the paddlers and non-paddlers, respectively, with an area under the curve of 84.2%.

Conclusions: These results indicate that there are distinctive physical and anthropometric qualities that may be advantageous for prospective paddling athletes to possess. Practitioners should integrate assessments of horizontal shoulder abduction isometric strength, body mass, and sitting height, as well as their subsequent cut-off thresholds, into talent detection programs focused toward the recognition of performance potential in paddling-oriented sports.

New Library Books - May 2017

This is a list of new books which have recently been added to the JCU Library collection. Books may be borrowed from the displays in the Eddie Koiki Mabo Library and the Cairns Campus Library, unless they are in non-borrowable collections such as Reference. Click on the title links to see more details in Tropicat and to access eBooks online.

ONLINE	Treating adolescents with family-based mindfulness
370.15 CRI	Critical educational psychology
305.230869420994 AUS	Vulnerable young people
362.290994 ALC	Alcohol and other drug treatment services in Australia
614.4294 CON	Contribution of vascular diseases and risk factors to the burden of dementia in Australia
614.4294 DIA	Diabetes and chronic kidney disease as risks for other diseases
614.59990994 CAN 2017	Cancer in Australia 2017.
ONLINE	How the immune system works
616.8521 FAS	The empire of trauma
ONLINE	Treating trauma and traumatic grief in children and adolescents

Publication: Cultural competence in clinical psychology training: a qualitative investigation of student and academic experiences

Geerlings, Lennie R.C., Thompson, Claire L., Bouma, Ruth, and Hawkins, Russell (2017) Cultural competence in clinical psychology training: a qualitative investigation of student and academic experiences. Australian Psychologist. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/48863/

Abstract

Objective: Recent years have seen a marked increase in attention to cultural competence in clinical psychology practice in Australia. While the body of literature on the need for cultural competence is expanding, this is the first study that analyses how cross-cultural training and practice is experienced and related to standardised models of cultural competence.

Method: Twelve participants (8 students and 4 academics; 9 females and 3 males, ages 22–57) in two Australian universities were interviewed on their experiences with cultural competence during clinical psychology training. Each semi-structured interview took about 30 min and focused on identifying the training experiences and needs for cultural competence.

Results: Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of the transcripts delivered three master themes: experiences of culture, strategies for culturally competent practice, and experiences of cultural competence development.

Conclusions: Students and academics experienced a “western” bias in training, and consequently adopted a variety of strategies to adapt their practice with culturally non-western clients. These findings draw attention to the need for structured cultural competence development in professional training programs.

Going the distance for treatment

Going through cancer treatment is a harrowing process that is made even more difficult when you live in rural and remote Australia. The challenges patients and healthcare professionals face spurred JCU’s Dr Tracey Ahern to examine the role of breast care nurses — and in the process find a model that could help other cancer patients.

Dr Tracey Ahern still remembers the words that sparked her into action.

“The further someone lives from a metropolitan city the more likely they are to die from cancer.”

Having lived and worked in the North Queensland town of Ayr, the statement hit pretty close to home.

“I was from a rural area and I thought that this is so unfair,” she says. “It sparked my interest in the area of cancer research. Because I was a registered nurse, I wanted to research nurses and I was interested in exploring how they support women with breast cancer and how that could then be applied elsewhere.”

For the full story see
https://www.jcu.edu.au/brighter/articles/going-the-distance-for-treatment

JCU BNSc/BMid students attend Thanksgiving service for nurses

On Saturday 20th May, JCU BNSc/BMidwifery students joined with the Townsville Hospital Past Graduate Nurses and Midwives for a Thanksgiving Service for Nurses.

Distinguished guests in attendance were Mayor Jenny Hill, Executive Director of Nursing Mater Hospital Townsville , Karen Gerrard, Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery, Townsville Hospital and Health Services, Judy Morton and Midwifery Director, Amanda Ostrenski.

The students participated in a procession of the lamp during which each was partnered with a retired Nurse to witness the passing of the Lamp from the President of the Association to Rachel Stables, a 2016 JCU Graduate. This is a symbolic passing of the culture, art and science of nursing and midwifery from one generation to the next.

The service was followed by a sumptuous morning tea and many stories shared between the retired nurses and the students.

Applications now open for the 2017 Advance Global Australian Awards Mentoring Program

Interested in a unique opportunity to develop your professional clarity and gain industry specific knowledge under the eye of an expert?

Apply now to be mentored by an influential Award-winning industry leader as part of the Advance Global Australian Awards Mentoring Program. The program matches Australian university students with an Advance Global Australian Award Winner for 12-months, for one-on-one mentoring. Your mentor will share their own professional and personal experiences and knowledge to support their mentees with their development goals.

The program is open to all undergraduate and postgraduate students, who are enrolled in their final year of study at an Australian University in 2017.

Want to be involved? Apply now at www.globalaustralianawards.com.

Applications close on Friday June 23.

Psych yourself up for a change

It’s never too late to change tracks and do something that fires you up in the morning.

Going back to uni can be the turning point in your life. Studying can open doors to careers you never thought were possible, become your passport to travelling across the globe, and — most importantly — it can lead to a life doing something that you are passionate about.

Psychological Science student Chris Ingham felt as though he had reached a ceiling in his career in the welfare sector. Intrigued by human behaviour, he thought human psychology would be an interesting field to enter.

For the full story see
https://www.jcu.edu.au/brighter/articles/psych-yourself-up-for-a-change

Publication: Does the AUSDRISK tool predict perceived risk of developing diabetes and likelihood of lifestyle change?

Ikin, Catherine R., and Caltabiano, Marie L. (2016) Does the AUSDRISK tool predict perceived risk of developing diabetes and likelihood of lifestyle change? Diabetes & Primary Care Australia, 1 (4). pp. 139-143.

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/46180/

Abstract
Type 2 diabetes prevention measures that include early detection through screening are imperative in stemming the rising prevalence of this disease. The aim of this study was to examine perceived risk for developing diabetes in light of an actual risk, in an undiagnosed population using the AUSDRISK scale. A cross-sectional sample of a university campus took part in a repeated measures assessment of perceived risk intersected with an actual risk assessment. Participants also indicated the likelihood of lifestyle changes subsequent to risk assessment.

ILT Indigenous Leaders of Tomorrow Program students visit JCUCHS

Last week, JCU Cairns hosted the ILT Indigenous Leaders of Tomorrow Program which involved 83 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in grade 12 from Tully to Thursday Island exposed to a variety of aspects of university life for the afternoon.

60 students visited the JCUCHS Nursing labs to hear about nursing and midwifery careers from Deputy Head of Nursing, Dr Karen Yates, and BNSc Course Coordinator, Sally White.

Publication: Australian military nursing from ANZAC to now: embracing the ghosts of our nursing ancestors

Biedermann, Narelle (2017) Australian military nursing from ANZAC to now: embracing the ghosts of our nursing ancestors. Advances in Historical Studies. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/48581/

Abstract
Britain declared war on Germany on 4 August 1914. The following day, Australia was also formally at war. Australian nurses were quick to volunteer to support Australia's war effort, and what was to follow for these women was unprecedented up until that time – professionally and personally. War and nursing are historically linked; where there is war, there is death, injury and illness, and where there is suffering, there are nurses and carers determined to alleviate that suffering. The fact that there are Australian military nurses serving overseas right now validates this. The purpose of this paper is to explore Australian military nursing from the contexts of World War 1 and contemporary military operations. At this time when commemorations to mark the centenary of Australia's involvement in World War 1 are ever most present around the nation, encouraging us to reflect upon and learn more about Australia's military history, it is important that this comparison occurs as a means of reinforcing the significance of the contribution made by our nursing ancestors and acknowledge their influence on the practice of military nurses today. An analysis of practice between the two eras highlights that whilst there are obvious differences, there are some important parallels that have implications for both the military and civilian nursing profession.

JCU Nursing graduate's career taking off in the Torres Strait

Having only graduated 6 months ago with the JCU Bachelor of Nursing Science, Voleak La's career has already taken off!

Working as a Registered Nurse in the remote Islands of the Torres Strait, Voleak has dedicated herself to improving the health of those in the community in which she lives.

Voleak La

Mental Health: Are we doing enough?

The pressure of juggling commitments can cause students
to become isolated. Image: Shutterstock.

The stress of balancing study, work and family commitments combined with uncertainty about the future can take its toll. For some students, it can all become too much and the constant grind of everyday responsibilities can lead them down a dark and lonely path. University staff can also be members of the walking wounded due to increasing workloads and high stress environments. An inaugural conference at James Cook University will shine a light on mental health in higher education and bring together researchers, practitioners, educators and students to find ways forward.

Caring for the mental health of university students should start well before a student first steps onto campus or logs in online.

Dr Beryl Buckby, a clinical psychologist and lecturer in undergraduate and postgraduate psychology programs at James Cook University, says fostering relationships between high school students and universities can lead to healthier and happier experiences and greater productivity. She says it is particularly important to form these connections with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students before they launch into university degrees.

For the full story see
https://www.jcu.edu.au/brighter/articles/mental-health-are-we-doing-enough

Indigenous voices are re-emerging. We are representing ourselves once again

Dr Lynore Geia

I look forward to a time when Indigenous people are seen as real contributors, when our voices are fully recognised as valuable in enriching Australia, writes @IndigenousX host Lynore Geia on #IHMayDay17

Just about everywhere I turn in Canberra I am reminded of how this city is a place of representations. From the mountains to the lake, from the numerous government buildings to the resistance camp at the Aboriginal Tent Embassy, these are all representations of power and agency.

Over the last few days I have walked on Ngunnawal country participating in the annual Indigenous Health May Day 2017 conference. As with the previous three years, this year’s conference has selected a theme that is significant to the Indigenous community to frame the day: Representation: Politics, Policy & Education.

For full story see
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2017/may/17/indigenous-voices-are-re-emerging-we-are-representing-ourselves-once-again

#IHMayDay17 - Call to action

Today (Wednesday, 17 May) is the fourth Indigenous health Twitter festival – #IHMayDay17, led by JCU College of Healthcare Sciences academic Dr Lynore Geia – a Bwgcolman woman from Palm Island.

#IHMayDay – standing for Indigenous Health MayDay – is an annual Twitter event, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people tweeting about health issues. Non-Indigenous people are encouraged to participate by retweeting and listening.

Visit the website for program of events and participant tip sheets for universities, workplaces and health services, as well as calls to action.

https://croakey.org/announcing-ihmayday17-program-make-sure-to-tune-in/

Publication: An absence of attentional bias: statistics anxiety is unique among anxieties

Chew, Peter, Swinbourne, Anne, and Dillon, Denise (2017) An absence of attentional bias: statistics anxiety is unique among anxieties. Journal of Articles in Support of the Null Hypothesis, 13 (2). pp. 91-112.

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/48513/

Abstract
The purpose of the study was to examine the role of attentional bias in statistics anxiety in two experiments. Participants were 99 (68% females) and 104 (67% females) psychology undergraduates at James Cook University, respectively. These participants had either never taken a statistics course before but will enroll in one in the future, were currently enrolled in a statistics course, or had successfully completed at least one statistics course but were not currently enrolled in a statistics course. Participants completed the emotional Stroop task and the dot probe task, the Statistical Anxiety Rating Scale, Social Desirability Scale, and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Across the experiments, participants high in statistics anxiety had the same levels of attentional bias as their low-anxious counterparts, indicating an absence of attentional bias in statistics anxiety. Implications include a reconsideration of the cognitive mechanisms underlying statistics anxiety. Specifically, individuals with statistics anxiety might be interpreting danger based on the absence of safety indicators instead of the presence of danger indicators. Alternatively, another form of cognitive bias, such as an interpretation bias might underlie statistics anxiety. Future research should be conducted to compare the plausibility of these two explanations.

Seeking research participants: Internationally qualified registered nurses in the Australian healthcare system

Are you a registered nurse who has worked in Australia?

James Cook University PhD candidate Ms Ylona Chun Tie is seeking input into a survey looking at Internationally qualified and Australian qualified registered nurses working in the Australian healthcare system.

This is a great opportunity for all registered nurses to voice their opinion and express what nurses see as the important issues regarding working together in today’s multicultural Australian nursing workforce.

The survey will only take approximately 10 minutes to complete. All survey responses are anonymous.

You can access the survey online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/IQRNs

The survey will be open until 30 June.

We are also looking for registered nurses to tell us their story of working in the Australian healthcare system with OR as an internationally qualified nurse, via a short interview, either over the phone or face to face.

All interview responses will remain confidential. If you are interested in sharing your experience or would like further information, please contact Ylona at: ylona.chuntie@jcu.edu.au

Your responses will make a valuable contribution to inform the direction of vital nursing workforce research.

Reproduced from http://anmf.org.au/news/entry/are-you-a-registered-nurse-who-has-worked-in-australia

Happiness vs Wellbeing: Which should we really be pursuing?

What makes us happy? How can we become happy? Why are certain people happier than others?

These are all questions that many of you have probably asked before. The pursuit for happiness is a universal human goal, however, did you know that there’s a big difference between happiness and wellbeing? There’s an entire strain of psychology dedicated to investigating wellbeing, so we spoke with Dr Maria Hennessy, a Senior Lecturer in Psychology at JCU, to learn more.

For full story see
https://www.jcu.edu.au/brighter/articles/10-reasons-you-should-ditch-the-big-smoke-to-study-in-north-queensland/happiness-vs-wellbeing-which-should-we-really-be-pursuing

Photo: Cristian Newman, Unsplash

Publication: The association between fundamental athletic movements and physical fitness in elite junior Australian footballers

Woods, Carl T., McKeown, Ian, Keogh, Justin, and Robertson, Sam (2017) The association between fundamental athletic movements and physical fitness in elite junior Australian footballers. Journal of Sports Sciences. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/48578/

Abstract
This study investigated the associations between fundamental athletic movement and physical fitness in junior Australian football (AF). Forty-four under 18 players performed a fundamental athletic movement assessment consisting of an overhead squat, double lunge, single leg Romanian deadlift and a push up. Movements were scored on three assessment criterions using a three-point scale. Additionally, participants performed five physical fitness tests commonly used for talent identification in AF. A Spearman’s nonparametric correlation matrix was built, with correlation coefficients being visualised using a circularly rendered correlogram. Score on the overhead squat was moderately positively associated with dynamic vertical jump height on left (rs = 0.40; P ≤ 0.05) and right (rs = 0.30; P ≤ 0.05) leg take-off, stationary vertical jump (rs = 0.32; P ≤ 0.05) and negatively associated with 20-m sprint time (rs = −0.35; P ≤ 0.05). Score on the double lunge (left/right side) was moderately positively associated with the same physical fitness tests as well as score on the multistage fitness test. Results suggest that improvements in physical fitness qualities may occur through concurrent increases in fundamental athletic movement skill, namely the overhead squat and double lunge movements. These findings may assist with the identification and development of talent.

Townsville & Cairns Health Service Receive JCU Awards for Outstanding Contribution to Student Learning

On International Nurses Day, we celebrated our partnerships with the Townsville Hospital & Health Service [THHS] and the Cairns & Hinterland Hospital & Health Service [CHHHS], who received JCU Awards for Outstanding Contribution to Student Learning.

In Townsville, the individual award receipient was Charmaine Arthurs, with the team award going to Medical 5 at THHS, presented by JCU Head of Nursing, Midwifery & Nutrition, Professor Melanie Birks and Deputy Head (TSV), Dr John Smithson.

Team award presented to Medical 5 staff

In Cairns, the individual award receipient was Marie Beechey, with the team award going to the Cairns Mental Health Unit, presented by JCU Nursing, Midwifery & Nutrition, Deputy Head (Cairns), Dr Karen Yates.

Marie Beechey & Dr Karen Yates

Team award presented to Cairns Mental Health Unit

Could PNG be home to the next Usain Bolt?

A village in Papua New Guinea might be the birthplace of a future Johnathan Thurston. A remote community on the other side of the country could be the home of the next Usain Bolt. While the province next door might be fielding an up-and-coming AFL superstar.

The speed, agility and strength of Papua New Guinean athletes will be mapped as part of a JCU research initiative, giving talent scouts a shortcut when it comes to assembling their dream teams.

Honours student Kieran Sciberras will be testing the nation’s athletes and rising stars over the next two years to identify where Papua New Guinea’s untapped sports talent is hiding. His research raises the question of nature versus nurture and whether some people are born to run, while others might be made to jump, throw or tackle.

For full story see
https://www.jcu.edu.au/brighter/articles/could-png-be-home-to-the-next-usain-bolt

Publication: Occupational disruption and natural disaster: finding a 'new normal' in a changed context

Sima, Lenka, Thomas, Yvonne, and Lowrie, Daniel (2017) Occupational disruption and natural disaster: finding a 'new normal' in a changed context. Journal of Occupational Science. pp. 1-12. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/48162/

Abstract
Individuals affected by natural disasters can undergo critical life changes throughout the recovery process. With a forecast increase in frequency and impact of natural disasters, it is important to consider the occupational recovery process that individuals experience post-disaster. This qualitative descriptive study explored the experience of occupational disruption and occupational recovery of individuals after Cyclone Yasi struck a small, regional town in Northern Queensland, Australia. Nine semi-structured interviews from long-term residents of the town affected by Cyclone Yasi were conducted 2 years after the event. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and independently coded using thematic analysis by three researchers. Five interrelated themes were identified: Recovery occupations; Interruption to leisure and productive occupations; Reconstruction: A second disaster; Occupational liminality and A new normal. These themes point to a phased process of occupational recovery through which disaster survivors encounter numerous personal and contextual barriers, encumbering their return to re-engagement in meaningful occupational routines. The findings from this research offer insights into the support needs of both individuals and communities as they endeavour to overcome challenges associated with the recovery process

Australian Ethical launches inaugural study grant

$2,000 grant for a purpose-driven student to pursue their dreams

Leading ethical superannuation fund, Australian Ethical, has launched its inaugural study grant for Australian higher education students. The $2,000 grant is to assist students who are working to drive positive change in the world.

The applications will be assessed based on how the recipient plans to use their education toward building an ethical future and how the study grant will assist in realising this vision.

The applications will be judged by Australian Ethical Chief Executive Officer Phil Vernon and Ethics Analyst Ella McKinley, who both have a keen eye for upcoming ethical issues and initiatives.

In addition to $2000 prize money, the winner will also have their application featured on the Good Money blog, promoted in media, and featured on Australian Ethical’s social media channels.

Entry is open to all students currently enrolled in Australian higher education.

Final entries close at 5:00pm AEST 5 June 2017. The winner will be notified by email on the 23 June 2017.

To apply see:
https://www.australianethical.com.au/study-grant/

Publication: Case study research: foundations and methodological orientations

Harrison, Helena, Birks, Melanie, Franklin, Richard, and Mills, Jane (2017) Case study research: foundations and methodological orientations. Forum Qualitative Sozialforschung, 18 (1). pp. 1-17.

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/47422/

Abstract
Over the last forty years, case study research has undergone substantial methodological development. This evolution has resulted in a pragmatic, flexible research approach, capable of providing comprehensive in-depth understanding of a diverse range of issues across a number of disciplines. Change and progress have stemmed from parallel influences of historical transformations in approaches to research and individual researcher's preferences, perspectives, and interpretations of this design. Researchers who have contributed to the development of case study research come from diverse disciplines with different philosophical perspectives, resulting in a variety of definitions and approaches. For the researcher new to using case study, such variety can create a confusing platform for its application. In this article, we explore the evolution of case study research, discuss methodological variations, and summarize key elements with the aim of providing guidance on the available options for researchers wanting to use case study in their work.

Someone call the Midwife

Few people are fortunate enough to find what they are born to do. For JCU’s Marie McAuliffe, supporting women before, during and after giving birth is her calling. Now she’s guiding future midwives to develop their skills and passion for the profession.

Having worked across Queensland as a midwife for about 40 years, JCU Senior Lecturer Marie McAuliffe has racked up more than her fair share of remarkable experiences.

For full story see
https://www.jcu.edu.au/brighter/articles/someone-call-the-midwife

Publication: Planning for sedentary behaviour interventions: office workers' survey and focus group responses

McGuckin, Teneale, Sealey, Rebecca, and Barnett, Fiona (2017) Planning for sedentary behaviour interventions: office workers' survey and focus group responses. Perspectives in Public Health. pp. 1-6. (In Press)

https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/48107/

Abstract

Aims: As sedentary behaviour is becoming more prominent in office-based work environments, this study aimed to explore office workers' perception of sedentary behaviour, explore potential behavioural strategies to reduce sedentary behaviour in the workplace and identify barriers which may hamper behaviour change.

Methods: A total of 140 office workers were recruited and surveyed from the same workplace. The survey included questions regarding perception of relationship between sitting time and health. Following the survey, 12 employees also participated in focus groups to identify potential sedentary behaviour intervention strategies and barriers. The responses from the survey and focus groups were thematically analysed.

Results: In total, 88% of all participants surveyed agreed that there was a relationship between sitting time and their health. The most prominent theme identified was musuloskeletal complaints followed by general health and weight gain or obesity. The focus groups identified that interventions targeting reducing siting time should include education, supportive and knowledgeable managers, and a variety of behaviour change strategies to address individual preferences and barriers.

Conclusion: Multiple behavioural strategies were identified, which appear to be appropriate for sedentary behaviour change.

New Library Books - April 2017

This is a list of new books which have recently been added to the JCU Library collection. Books may be borrowed from the displays in the Eddie Koiki Mabo Library and the Cairns Campus Library, unless they are in non-borrowable collections such as Reference. Click on the title links to see more details in Tropicat and to access eBooks online.

ONLINE	Becoming an ethical helping professional
ONLINE	Executive functions in children's everyday lives
ONLINE	Presence
ONLINE	Positive behaviour management in early years settings
ONLINE	Critical educational psychology
ONLINE	The mindful way through depression
ONLINE	Clinical leadership in nursing and healthcare
362.22 SAU	Collective trauma, collective healing
ONLINE	Well-being, positive peer relations and bullying in school settings
ONLINE	Clarifying and furthering existential psychotherapy
ONLINE	Understanding behaviorism
ONLINE	New governance of addictive substances and behaviours
ONLINE	Textbook of global health
ONLINE	Systems science and population health
ONLINE	Rethinking cognitive enhancement
ONLINE	Pediatric and adult nutrition in chronic diseases, developmental disabilities, and hereditary metabolic disorders
610.73072 COU 2017	Doing a literature review in nursing, health and social care
616.89142 PER	The case formulation approach to cognitive-behavior therapy

JCU Students and Staff Celebrate International Day of the Midwife

Midwives and Midwifery Students of took time out this morning to celebrate International Day of the Midwife with morning tea and story swapping.

Midwives work in every setting, in every country of the world, supporting women on their journey to motherhood. Today, the Midwives of the world take a moment to think about their own journey.

Here at JCU, we joined together to reflect on the journey of our students in our own part of the world and to celebrate our work.

Midwifery Students Demonstrating their Midwifery Philosophies through Art

All nurses and midwives have clear principles that guide their practice. These principles underpin all their actions. Another way to describe these principles is ‘having a philosophy’. A midwifery philosophy contains many of the following ideas: woman centred care, respectful relationships; partnership, evidence based practice, collaboration with other healthcare professionals, empowerment of the woman, advocacy, autonomy of the woman, and holistic care.

In the first subject in the Bachelor of Midwifery component of the double degree, the students are asked to explore their own philosophy of midwifery. They are asked to express it in imagery as well as words. These photos are from this tutorial. This philosophy will stay with them for the rest of their training and throughout their working lives as midwives, but will not remain static. As they grow in knowledge and understanding and experience this philosophy will develop and expand and may even become more detailed. Expression of their philosophies is starting the students on a journal of self-reflection and growth and can lead to professionals who know who they are, what they are doing and help them to remain a midwife - ‘with woman’.

Levelling the playing field: Are doping athletes criminals?

The majesty of an athlete at the peak of their powers can take your breath away. Revelations of sports superstars who use performance-enhancing substances can also be shocking. Should athletes who choose to go faster, higher and stronger by doping face court for their deception?

Australia is mad about sport. From the cricket pitch to the Olympic swimming pool, our nation has produced more than its fair share of sporting heroes. We love to champion our athletes and laude their dedication to pushing their bodies beyond what was thought possible. But admiration can quickly turn to a sense of betrayal when an athlete is revealed to be a drug cheat.

James Cook University Associate Professor Terry Engelberg says in some cases taking performance-enhancing substances could be seen as a crime.

For full story see
https://www.jcu.edu.au/brighter/articles/doping-in-sport

Stepping Back in Time for ANZAC Day

Sky blue dresses, snow white aprons and crimson capes have captured the imagination of a younger generation on Anzac Day. Wearing vintage uniforms, nurses and midwives stepped back in time to pay their respects while displaying the solidarity and enthusiasm that brings the group together.

Decked out in uniforms from yesteryear, the group of nurses and midwives were hard to miss on Tuesday during the Anzac Day march in Townsville.

For full article see
https://www.jcu.edu.au/brighter/articles/stepping-back-in-time-for-anzac-day

How Virtual Reality Spiders are Helping People face their Arachophobia

Gradually exposing people to the thing they fear, say a spider, in a controlled environment has long been the mainstay of treating phobias. But with exposure therapy you don’t have to have a spider physically present in the room for you to feel the benefits. Psychologists and researchers are using virtual reality to help people face their fears.

Authors

Rebekah Boynton, PhD Candidate, James Cook University

Anne Swinbourne, Senior Lecturer, Psychology, James Cook University.

Published: The Conversation, April 27, 2017

For full article see

https://theconversation.com/how-virtual-reality-spiders-are-helping-people-face-their-arachnophobia-73769