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Tracy Johnson

Publications and source records attributed to Tracy Johnson.

10 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2004

Effective demand forecasting in 9 steps.

Effective forecasting of demand for healthcare services requires nine steps: 1. Assemble historical data. 2. Analyze historical trends. 3. Identify key demand drivers. 4. Identify relevant benchmarks. 5. Model existing conditions. 6. Develop core assumptions for population-based demand. 7. Develop core assumptions for provider-level demand. 8. Create a baseline forecast of future demand. 9. Test sensitivity of projections to changes in core assumptions.

Adolescent↗
PubMed2002

The sand rat model for disc degeneration: radiologic characterization of age-related changes: cross-sectional and prospective analyses.

STUDY DESIGN: This report is composed of two studies, one cross-sectional and one prospective cohort study, that analyze the radiologic features of disc degeneration in the sand rat (Psammomys obesus). OBJECTIVES: To statistically assess progressive disc degeneration in this useful animal model in terms of a cross-sectional study and a prospective monthly evaluation of individual animals. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: P. obesus is an attractive small rodent model for spontaneous age-related disc degeneration. Because disc degeneration is spontaneous, the model avoids use of chemonucleolysis or surgical injury to cause disc degeneration. Little is understood, however, about specific details of the progressive disc deterioration. METHODS: This study statistically assessed 158 animals in a cross-sectional study and 22 animals in a longitudinal study, which followed individual animals to 12 months of age. Radiologic features involving irregular disc margins, disc wedging, disc narrowing, endplate calcification, subchondral sclerosis, ligament calcification, and osteophyte formation were studied. RESULTS: Significant age-related cross-sectional changes were present for all features (P < or = 0.005). Males showed a statistically greater incidence of wedging at 6 and 12 months, wedging at 2 and 6 months, and endplate calcification at 2 months than did females. By 6 months of age, however, endplate calcification had a higher incidence in females than in males. Prospective analysis showed that wedging, narrowing, endplate calcification, and irregular disc margins were more common at 12 months of age than at 2 months (P = 0.0001). By the age of 12 months, all lumbar sites of both males and females showed endplate calcification and the majority of animals showed narrowing and wedging. CONCLUSIONS: Radiographic signs of degeneration were evident by age 2 months; wedging, narrowing, irregular disc margins, and endplate calcification were the most common degenerative changes in older animals. These data show that the sand rat provides a reliable, useful model of spontaneous disc degeneration.

Aging↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Preventing hip fracture in care homes 1: views of residents and staff.

Hip protectors have been shown to be effective in reducing the incidence of hip fracture among older people living in care homes (Parker et al, 2004). However, there are problems with compliance. This article reports findings from a survey of 138 staff from 23 care homes about experiences and perceptions of using hip protectors. The survey was complemented by qualitative case studies involving staff, to be linked to compliance with wearing hip protectors including comfort, acceptability to the resident and appearance. Few practical difficulties in using hip protectors were identified. Staff and residents' perceptions and experiences of using hip protectors vary and are likely to influence compliance.

Accidental Falls↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Preventing hip fractures in care homes 2: role of the specialist nurse.

This article is the second of a two-part series based upon a research project to evaluate the impact of a specialist nurse role in reducing the incidence of hip fracture within care homes. The first article (Vol 13 (21): 1242-48) described the background and methods of the study, and presented the findings relating to resident and staff experiences of using hip protectors as a preventive measure within the homes. This article focuses on staff experiences of hip fracture prevention strategies and implementing evidence-based practice in this area. Findings suggest that specialist nurses have the potential to encourage evidence-based practice within care homes, while also improving staff morale and job satisfaction.

Accidental Falls↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Reducing the incidence of falls and hip fractures in care homes.

A project was developed to provide older residents in care homes with hip protectors if they were at risk of falling. The aim was to reduce the number of hip fractures sustained through falls. During the project it became apparent that care home staff had little knowledge of hip protectors, and felt unable to take steps to prevent falls. The project extended its scope to raise the awareness of falls-risk assessments and prevention strategies, and developing structures through which best practice could be shared between homes.

Accidental Falls↗