Biomedical subjects

Barbara Potter

Publications and source records attributed to Barbara Potter.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2005

A multi-method approach to measuring mastitis incidence.

This is the first of two papers describing a retrospective population-based survey of 273 women who initiated breastfeeding and whose babies were now six months old. It measured the incidence of mastitis and the impact of the women's experiences of managing mastitis on their reporting behaviour. The survey took place between January and May 2002. Based on a case definition of four primary symptoms, 56 women indicated they were either 'sure' or 'unsure' whether they had had mastitis. All these cases were included in estimating a cumulative incidence of 40 per cent (95 per cent CI 25-37 per cent). Incidence was highest at four and 12 weeks. Uncertainty of diagnosis was positively associated with effective self-management and not consulting a healthcare professional (p < 0.006). The study concluded that factors that influence reporting pattern are important determinants of incidence.

Adult↗

PubMed2005

Women's experiences of managing mastitis.

The first paper in this series (last month), discussed study methodology and the measurement of the incidence of mastitis, which was shown to peak at four and 12 weeks. It concluded that the reporting pattern by women experiencing mastitis affects the measurement of reported incidence. This paper presents the qualitative data generated through interviews with 56 women. It analyses their theories of causation that may account for the two peaks in incidence. Factors most likely to contribute to the risk of developing mastitis were identified by women as incorrect positioning and incomplete emptying. Expressing by hand or pump, and hurried or infrequent feeding patterns, were also thought to be practices associated with mastitis. They considered that these practices were associated with social pressures such as the care of older children. The study concluded that respondents' theories about causation illustrate the interactive nature of anatomical, physiological, pathological and social risk factors. The two peaks in incidence occur at times when the intensity of this interaction increases. Existing research findings support these theories and present opportunities to change and develop professional practice.

Adaptation, Psychological↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Manipulating establishing operations to promote initiations toward peers in children with autism.

This study examined the effects of manipulating establishing operations on the frequency of initiations of three children with autism toward peers with autism. The EO targeted was deprivation of preferred edibles, and the target initiation was a mand for the preferred snack. A reversal design was used to assess the effects of the EO conditions on frequency of initiations. Results indicated that when the EO was absent, no spontaneous initiations toward the peer occurred. Two participants required training sessions with an adult to transfer initiations toward peers. Once the EO had been established and was present, the participants initiated mands for the snack. Results are discussed in terms of implications for the use of establishing operations in language training for children with autism.

Autistic Disorder↗