Penny Furness - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Penny Furness

International Journal of Medical Education, 2012

Objectives: The evaluation aimed to explore reactions to, learning from and the perceived impact ... more Objectives: The evaluation aimed to explore reactions to, learning from and the perceived impact and sustainability of practice-based interprofessional learning initiatives established by The Trent Universities Interprofessional Learning in Practice project. Methods: The evaluation had a qualitative design and was guided by Kirkpatrick's evaluation framework. Facilitators, managers, practitioners, students and service users were invited to participate. This article focuses upon three of the project's practice-based interprofessional initiatives. Fifteen participants were interviewed about their experiences of, and opinions about, the initiative in their practice setting. A thematic analysis was conducted, following which findings were considered through the lens of the 'contact hypothesis' a theoretical framework which sets out variables purported to influence the success of inter-group contact. Results: Seven themes were identified. Four derived from Kirkpatrick's framework: reaction, learning, impact and sustainability. Initial reactions were positive; however learning and impact were considered minimal, and sustainability unlikely. The evaluation revealed significant problems in developing successful, sustainable, service userfocused interprofessional learning opportunities in these three sites. Three final themes were based upon contact hypothesis variables which helped elucidate the disappointing outcomes: organisational support, positive expectations, and co-operation/working together. Conclusions: Results offer insights which could help medical education establishments and their practice partners develop successful practice-based interprofessional learning initiatives for students in the future. Initiatives should be designed to meet local working practices and opportunities; there should be an awareness that change is challenging and time-consuming; and preparation of and support in host organisations at all levels should be a priority.

Health Psychology Open

Fibromyalgia is a severe chronic pain condition that affects every aspect of life. Causes of the ... more Fibromyalgia is a severe chronic pain condition that affects every aspect of life. Causes of the condition remain unclear, and quantitative research cannot account for patients’ personal illness narratives and perceptions. This online survey gathered qualitative accounts of the perceived causes of their condition from 596 people with fibromyalgia, which were analyzed thematically. Themes were “Bodily assault, ill-health, and change”; “Emotional trauma and distress”; “Stress and vulnerability”; and “Explaining and authenticating fibromyalgia.” Discussion focuses on the complexity of causation, the importance of understanding and having symptoms validated, and the potential for benefiting from patient expertise in building better practitioner–client relationships.

Qualitative Psychology

In this study, we investigated the subjective experiences of six individuals from Spain who grew ... more In this study, we investigated the subjective experiences of six individuals from Spain who grew up with a parent with schizophrenia. Our objectives were to explore participants' perceptions of the effects of these experiences upon their development and their sense of continuing impact upon their adult lives and relationships. Our approach was guided by Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and data collection involved in-depth interviews with participants. Three themes were generated: Role change and loss, Prison of Silence and Who Am I? The findings highlighted the stigma of schizophrenia in society, a lack of support, emotional deprivation in childhood, and lasting negative effects for these participants upon their world view. This exploratory interview-based study was guided by principles of interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) (Smith et al., 2009). British Psychological Society (BPS) ethical principles regarding research with human participants were followed, and the study was approved by Sheffield Hallam University Research Ethics Committee. Recruitment We recruited participants from a non-profit organization who provide psychological services to relatives of individuals with mental disorders in Valencia, Spain. Adults who grew up with a parent diagnosed with schizophrenia were introduced to the study and invited to participate, excluding those known to have schizophrenia or other serious mental illness. Informed consent was obtained from those expressing an interest, following which interviews were arranged. Participants Our six participants (3 men; 3 women) were Spanish. One revealed suffering from moderate depression but, following a careful discussion of risks and rights, wished to participate. Average age was 33 years (range 28-37). Two were siblings (a brother and a sister). Five had a mother with schizophrenia; one a father. Parental schizophrenia was diagnosed early in childhood for three participants, and during adolescence for the remainder. One participant was living with their parents, four lived with partners, and none had children. Five had a university degree. Data Collection An interview schedule was developed, with questions to explore experiences, and issues relating to perceived impact, wellbeing, beliefs and behaviour. Questions focused on the past, such as:

Scandinavian Journal of Pain

Background and aims Fibromyalgia is a complex condition characterised by widespread pain, sleep d... more Background and aims Fibromyalgia is a complex condition characterised by widespread pain, sleep disturbance, fatigue and cognitive impairment, with a global mean prevalence estimated at 2.7%. There are inconsistencies in guidelines on the treatment of fibromyalgia leading to dissatisfaction from patients and healthcare professionals. This study investigated patient-reported outcomes of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment usage and effectiveness with an assessment of acceptability. Methods Nine hundred and forty-one participants completed a self-administered anonymous questionnaire giving quantitative data of demographics, treatment usage and treatment outcomes. Participant-reported effectiveness and side effects were compared in the following treatment classes: analgesics, antidepressants, gabapentinoids, gastrointestinal treatments, activity interventions, dietary-based treatments, and psychological, physical and alternative therapies. Participants also reported wheth...

People, Place and Policy Online

Community-based history is a highly popular activity in neighbourhoods across the UK. The practic... more Community-based history is a highly popular activity in neighbourhoods across the UK. The practice of participants doing history, often their own, for themselves, marks its difference from other forms of public history. This article explores the potential of involvement in community-based history in the South Yorkshire region to contribute to social identity and well-being and to inform public policy concerning health and wellbeing. We demonstrate the role of community-based history in building social capital and creating social links, tackling the negative effects of isolation, providing meaning, generating public and self-esteem and contributing to personal identity and belonging, as well as improving and strengthening local communities. Our findings reveal the relevance of community history in shaping notions of place and a sense of well-being through citizen engagement, with implications for community governance. At the same time, the limitations of our sample, particularly in relation to 'race' and whiteness, mirror an overwhelmingly White British participation in the wider heritage sector. This confirms that issues concerning whose history is represented, by whom, for what purpose and in what context, require consideration and raises questions regarding the role of community history in enabling a nostalgic and exclusive place-making with negative implications for non-British and/or non-white inhabitants.

Qualitative Research

The nature of qualitative research means that the personal values of an individual researcher can... more The nature of qualitative research means that the personal values of an individual researcher can and do (unwittingly) shape the way in which they analyse data sets, and the resultant conclusions drawn. However this phenomenon is under-studied in social research and this article seeks to help rectify this. This article presents findings from a small research project focused on discourses of class, masculinity and work among British male comedians from working-class backgrounds, interviewed on the popular BBC Radio 4 radio programme Desert Island Discs. Six different researchers, from varying disciplinary, methodological and theoretical groundings, as well as from varying personal backgrounds, analysed three interview recordings and transcripts separately. All the researchers wrote up their individual analyses of these interviews and wrote reflexive pieces examining why they thought they approached the data as they did. The researchers then came together as a group to compare and con...

Qualitative health research, Jan 12, 2016

The outcomes of self-management interventions are commonly assessed using quantitative measuremen... more The outcomes of self-management interventions are commonly assessed using quantitative measurement tools, and few studies ask people with long-term conditions to explain, in their own words, what aspects of the intervention they valued. In this Grounded Theory study, a Health Trainers service in the north of England was evaluated based on interviews with eight service-users. Open, focused, and theoretical coding led to the development of a preliminary model explaining participants' experiences and perceived impact of the service. The model reflects the findings that living well with a long-term condition encompassed social connectedness, changed identities, acceptance, and self-care. Health trainers performed four related roles that were perceived to contribute to these outcomes: conceptualizer, connector, coach, and champion. The evaluation contributes a grounded theoretical understanding of a personalized self-management intervention that emphasizes the benefits of a holistic ...

International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, 2016

Although non-fatal injuries remain a frequent occurrence in Rail work, very few studies have atte... more Although non-fatal injuries remain a frequent occurrence in Rail work, very few studies have attempted to identify the perceived factors contributing to accident risk using qualitative research methods. This paper presents the results from a thematic analysis of ten interviews with On Track Machine (OTM) operatives. The inductive methodological approach generated five themes, of which two are discussed here in detail, 'Pressure and fatigue', and 'Decision making and errors'. It is concluded that for companies committed to proactive accident risk reduction, irrespective of current injury rates, the collection and analysis of worker narratives and broader psychological data across safety-critical job roles may prove beneficial.

Health Psychology Open

This study explores the life and treatment experience of people in the United Kingdom with fibrom... more This study explores the life and treatment experience of people in the United Kingdom with fibromyalgia in order to inform the development of treatments which are both effective and acceptable to users. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 14 participants with interpretative phenomenological analysis used as the theoretical framework and analytical method. The themes identified were as follows: Inauthenticity of fibromyalgia, An Unconventional healthcare experience, Recreating support networks, Challenging the working identity, Threatening the family dynamic and Fighting, accepting or accommodating? The biopsychosocial impacts of fibromyalgia disrupted the identity, lifestyle, roles and relationships of our participants with such challenges further exacerbated by the contested nature of the illness.

Background: Twenty percent of pregnant women in the UK are obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m 2), reflecting th... more Background: Twenty percent of pregnant women in the UK are obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m 2), reflecting the growing public health challenge of obesity in the 21st century. Obesity increases the risk of adverse outcomes during pregnancy and birth and has significant cost implications for maternity services. Gestational weight management strategies are a high priority; however the evidence for effective, feasible and acceptable weight control interventions is limited and inconclusive. This qualitative study explored the experiences and perceptions of pregnant women and midwives regarding existing support for weight management in pregnancy and their ideas for service development. Methods: A purposive sample of 6 women and 7 midwives from Doncaster, UK, participated in two separate focus groups. Transcripts were analysed thematically. Results: Two overarching themes were identified, ‘Explanations for obesity and weight management ’ and ‘Best care for pregnant women’. ‘Explanations ’ included a l...

Journal of Health Psychology, 2006

Facial surgery is associated with both functional difficulties and disfigurement, and there is ev... more Facial surgery is associated with both functional difficulties and disfigurement, and there is evidence to show that psychosocial outcomes vary widely between individuals. This article reports the findings of a grounded theory study of the predictors and process of adaptation to facial surgery in adulthood. Interviews and focus groups were conducted with 29 facial surgery survivors. Four super-ordinate data categories were generated, namely ‘Demands’,‘Resources’, ‘Responding and managing’ and ‘Consequences’. A model of adaptation was developed which reflected the inter-relationships apparent between these categories. Data extracts are presented to illustrate the grounding of the model in participants’ accounts, and the model is discussed with reference to previous theory and research.

Introduction: Fibromyalgia is a common condition characterized by widespread pain and debilitatin... more Introduction: Fibromyalgia is a common condition characterized by widespread pain and debilitating symptoms. It is a complex, varied and unpredictable condition, which can frustrate and complicate the relationship between patient and practitioner. There is currently little evidence regarding fibromyalgia patients' perspectives on physiotherapy in the United Kingdom (UK). Objective: To investigate the experiences of physiotherapy from the perspective of people with fibromyalgia in the UK. Methods: A UK-based mixed-methods survey gathered broad-ranging data from 941 people in the UK with fibromyalgia, regarding living and working with, and being diagnosed and treated for the condition. Qualitative data regarding experiences of physiotherapy were extracted from the full survey dataset, which included responses from 205 participants. Results: Thematic analysis generated two themes, each with two subthemes. "Access to the Physiotherapist: 'The Long and the Short of It'&q...

Clinical Pharmacokinectics, 2011

The Global North has over the years been a popular destination for migrants from the Global South... more The Global North has over the years been a popular destination for migrants from the Global South. Most of the migrants are in their reproductive ages who go on to bear and raise children. The differences and subjectivity in the context of their experiences may have an impact on how they ensure that their children have the best possible health and well-being. This paper synthesises 14 qualitative research papers, conducted in 6 Global North countries. We gathered evidence on settled Southern African migrants experiences of bearing and raising children in Global North destination countries and how they conceptualise sustaining children’s health and well-being. Results of the review indicated a concerning need for support in sustaining children’s health and well-being. Cultural and religious beliefs underpin how the parents in these studies raise their children. More research is needed which engages with fathers and extended family.

Burn patients engage in repetitive painful therapeutic treatments, such as wound debridement, dre... more Burn patients engage in repetitive painful therapeutic treatments, such as wound debridement, dressing changes, and other medical processes high in procedural pain. Pharmacological analgesics have been used for managing pain, but with ineffective results and negative side effects. Studies on pain management for burn patients suggested that Virtual Reality can treat procedural pain. This paper describes the process of designing, testing, and deploying a Virtual Reality system into a hospital setting. Firstly, a workshop was conducted to identify the most suitable types of Virtual Reality contents for the needs of burn-injured patients. Then, an experimental study, with 15 healthy adults, explored the analgesic impact of the Virtual Reality contents. The pain was induced through a cold pressor. Finally, we deployed the Virtual Reality system into the hospital to examine its efficiency on burn-injured inpatients. This study presents factors for the effective design and deployment of Vi...

Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine

PURPOSE: Children who sustain Upper Limb Injuries (ULIs), including fractures and burns, may unde... more PURPOSE: Children who sustain Upper Limb Injuries (ULIs), including fractures and burns, may undergo intensive rehabilitation. The discomfort of therapy can reduce their compliance, limit their range of motion (ROM) and lead to chronic pain. Virtual Reality (VR) interventions have been found to reduce anticipated and procedural pain. This feasibility study aimed to explore perceptions and impacts of a custom-made, fully immersive Head-Mounted Display VR (HMD-VR) experience within a United Kingdom (UK) National Health Service (NHS) outpatient rehabilitation service for children with ULIs. METHODS: Ten children aged 9–16 in one UK Children’s hospital trialled HMD-VR during one rehabilitation session. They, their parents (n = 10), and hospital physiotherapy staff (n = 2) were interviewed about their perceptions of pain, difficulty, enjoyability, therapeutic impacts, benefits, and limitations. Children rated the sessions on enjoyability, difficulty, and pain compared to usual rehabilita...

Journal of Burn Care & Research

Burns patients often suffer severe pain during interventions such as dressing changes, even with ... more Burns patients often suffer severe pain during interventions such as dressing changes, even with analgesia. Virtual Reality (VR) can be used to distract patients and reduce pain. However, more evidence is needed from the patients and staff using the technology about its use in clinical practice and the impact of different VR strategies. This small-scale qualitative study explored patient and staff perceptions of the impact and usability of active and passive VR during painful dressing changes. Five patients took part in three observed dressing changes—one with an active VR scenario developed for the study, one with passive VR, and one with no VR—following which they were interviewed about their experiences. Three nurses who performed the dressing changes participated in a focus group. Thematic analysis of the resulting data generated four themes: “Caution replaced by contentment,” “Distraction and implications for pain and wound care,” “Anxiety, control and enjoyment,” and “Preparat...

Journal of burn care & research : official publication of the American Burn Association, Jan 21, 2018

Burns patients often suffer excruciating pain during clinical procedures, even with analgesia. Vi... more Burns patients often suffer excruciating pain during clinical procedures, even with analgesia. Virtual Reality as an adjunct to pharmacological therapy has proved promising in the management of burn pain. More evidence is needed regarding specific forms of Virtual Reality. This mixed-method study examined the impact of active and passive Virtual Reality scenarios in experimental conditions, gathering data relating to user experience, acceptability and effectiveness in managing pain. Four scenarios were developed or selected following a consultative workshop with burns survivors and clinicians. Each was trialled using a cold pressor test with 15 University students. Data were gathered regarding pain threshold and tolerance at baseline and during each exposure. Short interviews were conducted afterwards. The two active scenarios were ranked highest and significantly extended participants pain threshold and tolerance times compared to passive and baseline conditions. Passive scenarios ...

Western Journal of Nursing Research

This study examined age group differences across adulthood in comorbid conditions, mental health,... more This study examined age group differences across adulthood in comorbid conditions, mental health, and cognitive function in people with fibromyalgia. Participants completed an online survey about how fibromyalgia affects their everyday life. Chi square analyses were conducted to examine associations between age groups and (a) comorbid conditions and (b) severity of anxiety and depression. ANOVA analyses examined age group differences on aspects of self-report cognitive function. The greatest prevalence of comorbid conditions was found in middle adulthood. Early adulthood was associated with more cases of severe anxiety with the lowest number of cases being in the oldest age group. Middle adulthood was associated with worse self-report pain compared to the youngest age group. Older adults showed better self-report cognitive function compared to younger adults. Distinct age profiles based on comorbid conditions, mental health, and symptom severity across adulthood in fibromyalgia have...

International Journal of Medical Education, 2012

Objectives: The evaluation aimed to explore reactions to, learning from and the perceived impact ... more Objectives: The evaluation aimed to explore reactions to, learning from and the perceived impact and sustainability of practice-based interprofessional learning initiatives established by The Trent Universities Interprofessional Learning in Practice project. Methods: The evaluation had a qualitative design and was guided by Kirkpatrick's evaluation framework. Facilitators, managers, practitioners, students and service users were invited to participate. This article focuses upon three of the project's practice-based interprofessional initiatives. Fifteen participants were interviewed about their experiences of, and opinions about, the initiative in their practice setting. A thematic analysis was conducted, following which findings were considered through the lens of the 'contact hypothesis' a theoretical framework which sets out variables purported to influence the success of inter-group contact. Results: Seven themes were identified. Four derived from Kirkpatrick's framework: reaction, learning, impact and sustainability. Initial reactions were positive; however learning and impact were considered minimal, and sustainability unlikely. The evaluation revealed significant problems in developing successful, sustainable, service userfocused interprofessional learning opportunities in these three sites. Three final themes were based upon contact hypothesis variables which helped elucidate the disappointing outcomes: organisational support, positive expectations, and co-operation/working together. Conclusions: Results offer insights which could help medical education establishments and their practice partners develop successful practice-based interprofessional learning initiatives for students in the future. Initiatives should be designed to meet local working practices and opportunities; there should be an awareness that change is challenging and time-consuming; and preparation of and support in host organisations at all levels should be a priority.

Health Psychology Open

Fibromyalgia is a severe chronic pain condition that affects every aspect of life. Causes of the ... more Fibromyalgia is a severe chronic pain condition that affects every aspect of life. Causes of the condition remain unclear, and quantitative research cannot account for patients’ personal illness narratives and perceptions. This online survey gathered qualitative accounts of the perceived causes of their condition from 596 people with fibromyalgia, which were analyzed thematically. Themes were “Bodily assault, ill-health, and change”; “Emotional trauma and distress”; “Stress and vulnerability”; and “Explaining and authenticating fibromyalgia.” Discussion focuses on the complexity of causation, the importance of understanding and having symptoms validated, and the potential for benefiting from patient expertise in building better practitioner–client relationships.

Qualitative Psychology

In this study, we investigated the subjective experiences of six individuals from Spain who grew ... more In this study, we investigated the subjective experiences of six individuals from Spain who grew up with a parent with schizophrenia. Our objectives were to explore participants' perceptions of the effects of these experiences upon their development and their sense of continuing impact upon their adult lives and relationships. Our approach was guided by Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and data collection involved in-depth interviews with participants. Three themes were generated: Role change and loss, Prison of Silence and Who Am I? The findings highlighted the stigma of schizophrenia in society, a lack of support, emotional deprivation in childhood, and lasting negative effects for these participants upon their world view. This exploratory interview-based study was guided by principles of interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) (Smith et al., 2009). British Psychological Society (BPS) ethical principles regarding research with human participants were followed, and the study was approved by Sheffield Hallam University Research Ethics Committee. Recruitment We recruited participants from a non-profit organization who provide psychological services to relatives of individuals with mental disorders in Valencia, Spain. Adults who grew up with a parent diagnosed with schizophrenia were introduced to the study and invited to participate, excluding those known to have schizophrenia or other serious mental illness. Informed consent was obtained from those expressing an interest, following which interviews were arranged. Participants Our six participants (3 men; 3 women) were Spanish. One revealed suffering from moderate depression but, following a careful discussion of risks and rights, wished to participate. Average age was 33 years (range 28-37). Two were siblings (a brother and a sister). Five had a mother with schizophrenia; one a father. Parental schizophrenia was diagnosed early in childhood for three participants, and during adolescence for the remainder. One participant was living with their parents, four lived with partners, and none had children. Five had a university degree. Data Collection An interview schedule was developed, with questions to explore experiences, and issues relating to perceived impact, wellbeing, beliefs and behaviour. Questions focused on the past, such as:

Scandinavian Journal of Pain

Background and aims Fibromyalgia is a complex condition characterised by widespread pain, sleep d... more Background and aims Fibromyalgia is a complex condition characterised by widespread pain, sleep disturbance, fatigue and cognitive impairment, with a global mean prevalence estimated at 2.7%. There are inconsistencies in guidelines on the treatment of fibromyalgia leading to dissatisfaction from patients and healthcare professionals. This study investigated patient-reported outcomes of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment usage and effectiveness with an assessment of acceptability. Methods Nine hundred and forty-one participants completed a self-administered anonymous questionnaire giving quantitative data of demographics, treatment usage and treatment outcomes. Participant-reported effectiveness and side effects were compared in the following treatment classes: analgesics, antidepressants, gabapentinoids, gastrointestinal treatments, activity interventions, dietary-based treatments, and psychological, physical and alternative therapies. Participants also reported wheth...

People, Place and Policy Online

Community-based history is a highly popular activity in neighbourhoods across the UK. The practic... more Community-based history is a highly popular activity in neighbourhoods across the UK. The practice of participants doing history, often their own, for themselves, marks its difference from other forms of public history. This article explores the potential of involvement in community-based history in the South Yorkshire region to contribute to social identity and well-being and to inform public policy concerning health and wellbeing. We demonstrate the role of community-based history in building social capital and creating social links, tackling the negative effects of isolation, providing meaning, generating public and self-esteem and contributing to personal identity and belonging, as well as improving and strengthening local communities. Our findings reveal the relevance of community history in shaping notions of place and a sense of well-being through citizen engagement, with implications for community governance. At the same time, the limitations of our sample, particularly in relation to 'race' and whiteness, mirror an overwhelmingly White British participation in the wider heritage sector. This confirms that issues concerning whose history is represented, by whom, for what purpose and in what context, require consideration and raises questions regarding the role of community history in enabling a nostalgic and exclusive place-making with negative implications for non-British and/or non-white inhabitants.

Qualitative Research

The nature of qualitative research means that the personal values of an individual researcher can... more The nature of qualitative research means that the personal values of an individual researcher can and do (unwittingly) shape the way in which they analyse data sets, and the resultant conclusions drawn. However this phenomenon is under-studied in social research and this article seeks to help rectify this. This article presents findings from a small research project focused on discourses of class, masculinity and work among British male comedians from working-class backgrounds, interviewed on the popular BBC Radio 4 radio programme Desert Island Discs. Six different researchers, from varying disciplinary, methodological and theoretical groundings, as well as from varying personal backgrounds, analysed three interview recordings and transcripts separately. All the researchers wrote up their individual analyses of these interviews and wrote reflexive pieces examining why they thought they approached the data as they did. The researchers then came together as a group to compare and con...

Qualitative health research, Jan 12, 2016

The outcomes of self-management interventions are commonly assessed using quantitative measuremen... more The outcomes of self-management interventions are commonly assessed using quantitative measurement tools, and few studies ask people with long-term conditions to explain, in their own words, what aspects of the intervention they valued. In this Grounded Theory study, a Health Trainers service in the north of England was evaluated based on interviews with eight service-users. Open, focused, and theoretical coding led to the development of a preliminary model explaining participants' experiences and perceived impact of the service. The model reflects the findings that living well with a long-term condition encompassed social connectedness, changed identities, acceptance, and self-care. Health trainers performed four related roles that were perceived to contribute to these outcomes: conceptualizer, connector, coach, and champion. The evaluation contributes a grounded theoretical understanding of a personalized self-management intervention that emphasizes the benefits of a holistic ...

International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, 2016

Although non-fatal injuries remain a frequent occurrence in Rail work, very few studies have atte... more Although non-fatal injuries remain a frequent occurrence in Rail work, very few studies have attempted to identify the perceived factors contributing to accident risk using qualitative research methods. This paper presents the results from a thematic analysis of ten interviews with On Track Machine (OTM) operatives. The inductive methodological approach generated five themes, of which two are discussed here in detail, 'Pressure and fatigue', and 'Decision making and errors'. It is concluded that for companies committed to proactive accident risk reduction, irrespective of current injury rates, the collection and analysis of worker narratives and broader psychological data across safety-critical job roles may prove beneficial.

Health Psychology Open

This study explores the life and treatment experience of people in the United Kingdom with fibrom... more This study explores the life and treatment experience of people in the United Kingdom with fibromyalgia in order to inform the development of treatments which are both effective and acceptable to users. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 14 participants with interpretative phenomenological analysis used as the theoretical framework and analytical method. The themes identified were as follows: Inauthenticity of fibromyalgia, An Unconventional healthcare experience, Recreating support networks, Challenging the working identity, Threatening the family dynamic and Fighting, accepting or accommodating? The biopsychosocial impacts of fibromyalgia disrupted the identity, lifestyle, roles and relationships of our participants with such challenges further exacerbated by the contested nature of the illness.

Background: Twenty percent of pregnant women in the UK are obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m 2), reflecting th... more Background: Twenty percent of pregnant women in the UK are obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m 2), reflecting the growing public health challenge of obesity in the 21st century. Obesity increases the risk of adverse outcomes during pregnancy and birth and has significant cost implications for maternity services. Gestational weight management strategies are a high priority; however the evidence for effective, feasible and acceptable weight control interventions is limited and inconclusive. This qualitative study explored the experiences and perceptions of pregnant women and midwives regarding existing support for weight management in pregnancy and their ideas for service development. Methods: A purposive sample of 6 women and 7 midwives from Doncaster, UK, participated in two separate focus groups. Transcripts were analysed thematically. Results: Two overarching themes were identified, ‘Explanations for obesity and weight management ’ and ‘Best care for pregnant women’. ‘Explanations ’ included a l...

Journal of Health Psychology, 2006

Facial surgery is associated with both functional difficulties and disfigurement, and there is ev... more Facial surgery is associated with both functional difficulties and disfigurement, and there is evidence to show that psychosocial outcomes vary widely between individuals. This article reports the findings of a grounded theory study of the predictors and process of adaptation to facial surgery in adulthood. Interviews and focus groups were conducted with 29 facial surgery survivors. Four super-ordinate data categories were generated, namely ‘Demands’,‘Resources’, ‘Responding and managing’ and ‘Consequences’. A model of adaptation was developed which reflected the inter-relationships apparent between these categories. Data extracts are presented to illustrate the grounding of the model in participants’ accounts, and the model is discussed with reference to previous theory and research.

Introduction: Fibromyalgia is a common condition characterized by widespread pain and debilitatin... more Introduction: Fibromyalgia is a common condition characterized by widespread pain and debilitating symptoms. It is a complex, varied and unpredictable condition, which can frustrate and complicate the relationship between patient and practitioner. There is currently little evidence regarding fibromyalgia patients' perspectives on physiotherapy in the United Kingdom (UK). Objective: To investigate the experiences of physiotherapy from the perspective of people with fibromyalgia in the UK. Methods: A UK-based mixed-methods survey gathered broad-ranging data from 941 people in the UK with fibromyalgia, regarding living and working with, and being diagnosed and treated for the condition. Qualitative data regarding experiences of physiotherapy were extracted from the full survey dataset, which included responses from 205 participants. Results: Thematic analysis generated two themes, each with two subthemes. "Access to the Physiotherapist: 'The Long and the Short of It'&q...

Clinical Pharmacokinectics, 2011

The Global North has over the years been a popular destination for migrants from the Global South... more The Global North has over the years been a popular destination for migrants from the Global South. Most of the migrants are in their reproductive ages who go on to bear and raise children. The differences and subjectivity in the context of their experiences may have an impact on how they ensure that their children have the best possible health and well-being. This paper synthesises 14 qualitative research papers, conducted in 6 Global North countries. We gathered evidence on settled Southern African migrants experiences of bearing and raising children in Global North destination countries and how they conceptualise sustaining children’s health and well-being. Results of the review indicated a concerning need for support in sustaining children’s health and well-being. Cultural and religious beliefs underpin how the parents in these studies raise their children. More research is needed which engages with fathers and extended family.

Burn patients engage in repetitive painful therapeutic treatments, such as wound debridement, dre... more Burn patients engage in repetitive painful therapeutic treatments, such as wound debridement, dressing changes, and other medical processes high in procedural pain. Pharmacological analgesics have been used for managing pain, but with ineffective results and negative side effects. Studies on pain management for burn patients suggested that Virtual Reality can treat procedural pain. This paper describes the process of designing, testing, and deploying a Virtual Reality system into a hospital setting. Firstly, a workshop was conducted to identify the most suitable types of Virtual Reality contents for the needs of burn-injured patients. Then, an experimental study, with 15 healthy adults, explored the analgesic impact of the Virtual Reality contents. The pain was induced through a cold pressor. Finally, we deployed the Virtual Reality system into the hospital to examine its efficiency on burn-injured inpatients. This study presents factors for the effective design and deployment of Vi...

Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine

PURPOSE: Children who sustain Upper Limb Injuries (ULIs), including fractures and burns, may unde... more PURPOSE: Children who sustain Upper Limb Injuries (ULIs), including fractures and burns, may undergo intensive rehabilitation. The discomfort of therapy can reduce their compliance, limit their range of motion (ROM) and lead to chronic pain. Virtual Reality (VR) interventions have been found to reduce anticipated and procedural pain. This feasibility study aimed to explore perceptions and impacts of a custom-made, fully immersive Head-Mounted Display VR (HMD-VR) experience within a United Kingdom (UK) National Health Service (NHS) outpatient rehabilitation service for children with ULIs. METHODS: Ten children aged 9–16 in one UK Children’s hospital trialled HMD-VR during one rehabilitation session. They, their parents (n = 10), and hospital physiotherapy staff (n = 2) were interviewed about their perceptions of pain, difficulty, enjoyability, therapeutic impacts, benefits, and limitations. Children rated the sessions on enjoyability, difficulty, and pain compared to usual rehabilita...

Journal of Burn Care & Research

Burns patients often suffer severe pain during interventions such as dressing changes, even with ... more Burns patients often suffer severe pain during interventions such as dressing changes, even with analgesia. Virtual Reality (VR) can be used to distract patients and reduce pain. However, more evidence is needed from the patients and staff using the technology about its use in clinical practice and the impact of different VR strategies. This small-scale qualitative study explored patient and staff perceptions of the impact and usability of active and passive VR during painful dressing changes. Five patients took part in three observed dressing changes—one with an active VR scenario developed for the study, one with passive VR, and one with no VR—following which they were interviewed about their experiences. Three nurses who performed the dressing changes participated in a focus group. Thematic analysis of the resulting data generated four themes: “Caution replaced by contentment,” “Distraction and implications for pain and wound care,” “Anxiety, control and enjoyment,” and “Preparat...

Journal of burn care & research : official publication of the American Burn Association, Jan 21, 2018

Burns patients often suffer excruciating pain during clinical procedures, even with analgesia. Vi... more Burns patients often suffer excruciating pain during clinical procedures, even with analgesia. Virtual Reality as an adjunct to pharmacological therapy has proved promising in the management of burn pain. More evidence is needed regarding specific forms of Virtual Reality. This mixed-method study examined the impact of active and passive Virtual Reality scenarios in experimental conditions, gathering data relating to user experience, acceptability and effectiveness in managing pain. Four scenarios were developed or selected following a consultative workshop with burns survivors and clinicians. Each was trialled using a cold pressor test with 15 University students. Data were gathered regarding pain threshold and tolerance at baseline and during each exposure. Short interviews were conducted afterwards. The two active scenarios were ranked highest and significantly extended participants pain threshold and tolerance times compared to passive and baseline conditions. Passive scenarios ...

Western Journal of Nursing Research

This study examined age group differences across adulthood in comorbid conditions, mental health,... more This study examined age group differences across adulthood in comorbid conditions, mental health, and cognitive function in people with fibromyalgia. Participants completed an online survey about how fibromyalgia affects their everyday life. Chi square analyses were conducted to examine associations between age groups and (a) comorbid conditions and (b) severity of anxiety and depression. ANOVA analyses examined age group differences on aspects of self-report cognitive function. The greatest prevalence of comorbid conditions was found in middle adulthood. Early adulthood was associated with more cases of severe anxiety with the lowest number of cases being in the oldest age group. Middle adulthood was associated with worse self-report pain compared to the youngest age group. Older adults showed better self-report cognitive function compared to younger adults. Distinct age profiles based on comorbid conditions, mental health, and symptom severity across adulthood in fibromyalgia have...

People Place Policy (forthcoming, 2017), 2017

Community-based history is a hugely popular activity in neighbourhoods across the UK. The practic... more Community-based history is a hugely popular activity in neighbourhoods across the UK. The practice of participants doing history, often their own for themselves, marks its difference from other forms of public history practice. This article explores the potential of involvement in community-based history in the South Yorkshire region to contribute to social identity and well-being and to inform public policy concerning health and well-being. We demonstrate the powerful role of community-based history in building social capital and its potential in terms of creating social links between a broad range of people, thereby tackling the negative effects of social isolation, providing a sense of purpose and meaning, generating public and self-esteem and contributing to personal identity and belonging and to the improvement and strengthening of local communities.