Study level

  • Master of Philosophy

Faculty/School

Faculty of Health

School of Nursing

Topic status

We're looking for students to study this topic.

Research centre

Centre for Healthcare Transformation

Supervisors

Dr Jane O'Brien
Position
Senior Lecturer
Division / Faculty
Faculty of Health
Associate Professor Christina Parker
Position
Associate Professor
Division / Faculty
Faculty of Health

Overview

The ageing of the population in Australia, in line with other developed countries, is well documented, with the trend giving rise to an increase in incidence and prevalence of health conditions and complex health states for which age is a significant risk factor. As the skin ages, reduced moisture and loss of elasticity places the older person at increased risk of a variety of wounds such as skin tears and pressure injuries. In addition, the presence of multiple comorbid conditions often increases the time to healing and places the older person at greater risk of living with a wound. The report of The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety revealed shocking evidence that there are too many unacceptable practices and includes the prevention and management of wounds that sometimes lead to septicaemia and death1 in residents in RAC, many of whom have cognitive impairment or dementia.  

There may be unique challenges to improving wound care in aged care, however limited data exist.  Accordingly, this study reports on the organsiational workflow and workplace culture influencing wound care and the perceived difficulties in optimising evidence based practice.

1.         Commonwealth of Australia. Royal Commission in Aged Care Quality and Safety (Interim Report: Neglect). Canberra, ACT; 2019.

Research activities

You will complete:

  • literature review
  • qualitative focus groups and interviews of key health care professionals in aged care.

Outcomes

This project will build on previous research conducted by the wound healing research group at QUT in residential aged care facilities.

Project outcomes will provide much needed information to guide clinical wound care for people in residential aged care facilities.

Skills and experience

A background in health is required.

Scholarships

You may be eligible to apply for a research scholarship.

Explore our research scholarships

Keywords

Contact

Contact the supervisor for more information.