An overview of manual lymphatic drainage.

Manual lymphatic drainage is an advanced therapy that enhances the movement of lymph via a gentle form of massage. In this article, Sarah Jane Palmer provides an overview of manual lymphatic drainage as a treatment for lymphoedema, and summarises the latest research in the area.

Nutrition essential for wound healing.

Sarah Jane Palmer describes the powerful impact diet can have on the capability of a wound to heal itself. A wide range of nutrients can improve healing, yet malnutrition in everyday diet, regardless of a person's weight, can significantly delay or prevent healing. This article explores wound types, such as chronic wounds and burns, and discusses immunonutrition.

Health behavioural changes in older people post pandemic.

This article explores the lasting effects of the pandemic on physical and mental health among older people due to behavioural change. It discusses ways in which older people can change their health behaviours once again, and regain what has temporarily been lost in their lives in terms of strength, fitness and mental wellbeing.

The gut microbiome: the origin of disease?

The gut microbiome in humans is considered a 'virtual organ'. They play an important part in pathophysiological and physiological processes, and regulate host homeostasis. Changes to their delicate composition can have a damaging effect on their hosts. In this article, Sarah Jane Palmer details how these microorganisms impact the human body and how they can be well-regulated.

Overview of Urinary Incontinence.

Urinary incontinence is a common condition, which affects approximately 300 million people globally. In the UK alone, over 7 million people are affected by this condition. There are various physiological factors that contribute to incontinence, such as a weak bladder, weak pelvic floor muscles, overactive bladder muscles, merve damage from muscle sclerosis, diabetes-to name a few. In this article, the author discusses how urinary incontinence can be managed in men and women, alongside mental health considerations.

Mental health in the community: part two.

In 2021, 4.3 million referrals were made to mental health servies. Such numbers prompted the Royal College of Psychiatrists to urge the government to put together additional policies, to ensure that mental health is prioritised in the UK. In part two of her two-part series on mental health, Sarah Palmer sign-posts community nurses towards relevant services, in cases where they may come across a patient with mental health issues. Furthermore, a case for digitally enabled mental health care is made by the author, as this would let individuals receive help sooner.

Mental health in the community: part one.

Mental health issues are difficult yet common experiences. Considering that one in four people in England experience a mental health problem every year, it is essential that the community nurse has a good understanding of the different types of mental health problems faced by individuals, and be able to adequately provide care and support. In part one of a two-part series on mental health in the community, Sarah Palmer provides details on some of the more common mental health conditions, and the support that primary care can provide to individuals experiencing mental health issues.

Oral healthcare in the community.

Oral health is an essential part of a person's wellbeing. However, with increasing community nursing caseloads and more severe issues to tend to, dental hygiene might be overlooked in patients who are in the community. In this article, Sarah Jane Palmer discusses how nurses in the community can assess oral health, the types of assistance and provisions available/given to older adults/disabled individuals, and the extent of research and advice available for community nurses.

An update on enteral feeding in the community.

Enteral feeding is increasingly being used in the community. Therefore, it is crucial that community nurses and other community healthcare workers are well-informed about the different equipments used, as well as the techniques involved in preparing and giving the feed. In this article, Sarah Jane Palmer provides an overview of an enteral feeding method known as percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy, the different types of feed, the importance of communication between patients and the multidisciplinary team, preparing and giving the feed, and signs of complications to look out for.

Infection control in the community: recap on policy and procedure.

Infection control has long been the focus of the attention of anyone working in healthcare, due to the risks posed to patients and staff if appropriate infection control procedures are not followed properly. This article explores a recap of important infection control measures and also outlines the Government's policy for tackling antimicrobial resistance, and its link to infection control procedures. The article covers the key points of the recent publication from NHS England on the topic of infection control.

Faecal incontinence management in dementia patients.

Faecal incontinence is a complex issue faced by many older adults. This article will provide an overview of this condition and its causes. It will also provide policy and guidance on the subject, its general management, complications, the support available for carers, and the issue of faecal incontinence in someone who has dementia.