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The first study to investigate the prevalence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) within an Australian juvenile detention centre has identified the highest known prevalence of FASD among a justice-involved population worldwide. However, there has been limited investigation into the capacity of the custodial workforce to identify and manage young people in Australian detention centres with FASD or other neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI), and no published interventions aiming to develop environments appropriate for those with FASD in justice settings. Using the Template for Intervention Description and Replication checklist, this study describes the conception, implementation and evaluation of a training intervention aiming to upskill the custodial workforce in the management of youth with FASD and NDI; 117 staff participated in the intervention, and 109 completed pre- and post-intervention surveys. Improvements were seen across almost all knowledge and attitude items, and the intervention was considered highly necessary, appropriate and valuable by the workforce.

Studies in north-western Australia Aboriginal communities identified executive functioning and behavioural regulation as significant issues for children. Exposure to alcohol prenatally and adverse ...

Little is known about the challenges non-custodial youth detention centre staff face supporting young people with foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). We undertook qualitative inquiry to identify and describe the perspectives of non-custodial staff detention staff regarding the value of an FASD prevalence study. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and focus groups and analysed using thematic network analysis. Staff held few concerns about the prevalence study and its impact on participating young people; however, they identified barriers related to study processes, and practices and culture within their workplace, which hindered gaining maximum benefit from the research and its findings. Refereed/Peer-reviewed

To systematically review and conduct meta-analysis on studies that report the type and prevalence of functional and structural ear abnormalities among children with prenatal alcohol exposure and/or fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PsycINFO, ERIC, CINAHL, and Maternity and Infant Care were searched from 1806 through March 2021. Reference lists of relevant articles were manually searched. Studies reporting on functional and/or structural ear abnormalities among children (18 years) with prenatal alcohol exposure and/or FASD were eligible. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed by one reviewer and independently checked by another. A random effects meta-analysis was conducted.A total of 31 studies met the inclusion criteria and 25 were included in the meta-analyses, representing a total of 843 children with prenatal alcohol exposure and 1653 children with FASD. Functional ear abnormalities with the highest pooled prevalence were chronic serous otitis media (88.5%; 95% CI, 70.4%-99.3%), abnormal auditory filtering (80.1%; 95% CI, 76.5%-84.3%), and unspecified conductive hearing loss (68.0%; 95% CI, 51.9%-82.2%). Structural ear abnormalities with the highest pooled prevalence were microtia (42.9%; 95% CI, 26.8%-59.7%), railroad track ear (16.8%; 95% CI, 8.1%-27.7%), and misplaced ear (12.3%; 95% CI, 7.6%-17.9%).Our findings highlight the importance of examining the ears during assessment for FASD, and the need for public health messaging regarding the harms of prenatal alcohol exposure.

Background Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) is associated with growth deficits and neurodevelopmental impairment including foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). Difficulties with oral and written communication skills are common among children with PAE; however, less is known about how communication skills of adolescents who have PAE compare with those who do not. Adolescence is a critical time for development, supporting the transition into adulthood, but it is considered a high-risk period for those with FASD. Aims We conducted a systematic review to synthesize evidence regarding oral and written communication skills of adolescents with PAE or FASD and how they compare with those with no PAE. Methods & procedures A comprehensive search strategy used seven databases: Cochrane Library, Cinahl, Embase, Medline, PsycInfo, Eric and Web of Science. Included studies reported on at least one outcome related to oral and written communication for a PAE (or FASD) group as well as a no/low PAE group, both with age ranges of 10-24 years. Quality assessment was undertaken. Main contribution Communication skills most often assessed in the seven studies included in this review were semantic knowledge, semantic processing, and verbal learning and memory. These communication skills, in addition to reading and spelling, were commonly weaker among adolescents with PAE compared with those with no/low PAE. However, the findings were inconsistent across studies, and studies differed in their methodologies. Conclusions & implications Our results emphasize that for adolescents with PAE, communication skills in both oral and written modalities should be comprehensively understood in assessment and when planning interventions. A key limitation of the existing literature is that comparison groups often include some participants with a low level of PAE, and that PAE definitions used to allocate participants to groups differ across studies. What this paper adds What is already known on the subject PAE and FASD are associated with deficits in oral and written communication skills. Studies to date have mostly focused on children with a FASD diagnosis as well as combined groups of children and adolescents with FASD or PAE. There is a gap in what is known about oral and written communication skills of adolescents, specifically, who have PAE or FASD. This has implications for the provision of assessment and supports during a period of increased social and academic demands. What this study adds to existing knowledge This review provides systematic identification, assessment and synthesis of the current literature related to oral and written communication skills of adolescents with PAE compared with those with no/low PAE. The review revealed a small knowledge base with inconsistent methodologies and findings across studies. However, the findings overall highlight that adolescents with PAE have weaker skills in oral and written language than those with no/low PAE. Results are discussed in relation to education, social and emotional well-being, and forensic contexts. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work? Findings emphasize that for adolescents with PAE, comprehensive assessment of both oral and written communication skills, through both standardized and functional tasks, should be undertaken. Speech-language pathologists have a key role in assessment with individuals who have PAE.

CONTEXT: Early motor impairments have been reported in children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD), but it is not clear if early detection of motor impairments can identify children at risk for NDD or how early such impairments might be detected. OBJECTIVE: To characterize early motor function in children later diagnosed with NDD relative to typically developing children or normative data. DATA SOURCES: The Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Embase, Medline, PsycINFO, and Scopus electronic databases were searched. STUDY SELECTION: Eligible studies were required to include an examination of motor function in children (0–24 months) with later diagnosis of NDD by using standardized assessment tools. DATA EXTRACTION: Data were extracted by 4 independent researchers. The quality of the studies was assessed by using the Standard Quality Assessment Criteria for Evaluating Primary Research Papers from a Variety of Fields checklist. RESULTS: Twenty-five studies were included in this review; in most of the studies, the authors examined children with later autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Early motor impairments were detected in children later diagnosed with ASD. The meta-analysis results indicated that differences in fine, gross, and generalized motor functions between the later ASD and typically developing groups increased with age. Motor function across different NDD groups was found to be mixed. LIMITATIONS: Results may not be applicable to children with different types of NDD not reported in this review. CONCLUSIONS: Early motor impairments are evident in children later diagnosed with ASD. More research is needed to ascertain the clinical utility of motor impairment detection as an early transdiagnostic marker of NDD risk.

Self-regulation and executive functioning impairments are common in children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Given the high rates of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder identified amongst children living in the remote Fitzroy Valley region of Western Australia, the Alert Program® was identified as a culturally safe intervention for use in local primary schools. Researchers collaborated with Aboriginal Elders, community members, and staff from a Fitzroy Valley primary school to trial the Alert Program®. Teachers were trained to deliver eight Alert Program® lessons to children in class. Self-regulation and executive functioning were measured using teacher and parent/caregiver questionnaires three times. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA. Teacher-led delivery of the Alert Program® was feasible in a region with high fetal alcohol spectrum disorder rates. As measured by teacher and parent/caregiver ratings, this curriculum may improve the self-regulation and executive functioning of children for some outcomes and provide sustained effects for some children. This community partnered pilot research, evaluated a school-based program to reduce the behavioral impact of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and informed design of a larger trial across eight Aboriginal community schools.

Materials and Methods: Participants completed the Movement Assessment Battery for Children-2 (MABC-2), Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration (VMI) including its associated subtests, and a handwriting screen. Results: Ninety-nine young people (n=47 PAE; n= 36 FASD) with a mean age of 16 years were assessed. There was an association between a FASD diagnosis and lower scores on the VMI (p=0.005). Participants with FASD and PAE had higher impairment levels on the VMI compared to the No-PAE group. Mean MABC-2 scores were within age expected levels across all groups. More fine motor skill difficulties were observed compared to gross motor skill difficulties. Handwriting skills were below age expected levels in 84% of participants. Those in the PAE and FASD groups had more difficulty with letter formations and spatial awareness. Conclusions: Visual motor integration and handwriting skills were often impaired in this population. Lower VMI scores were more prevalent in participants diagnosed with FASD, and therefore should be routinely assessed as part of a diagnostic assessment. Assessment of fine and gross motor skills enabled recommendations for intervention support that address deficits and build upon strengths. Further research is needed to confirm these results using larger populations, and to investigate possible confounding factors associated with high VMI and handwriting difficulties in this population.

Background Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) can result in permanent disability, including physical, neurodevelopmental, and cognitive impairments, known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). Individuals with FASD are more likely to engage with the law, including being placed in detention, than individuals without FASD. Young people who were sentenced to detention participated in a FASD prevalence study in Western Australia. The diagnosis of FASD requires a multidisciplinary assessment and confirmation of maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Obtaining accurate assessment of PAE for young people participating in the study was challenging. Methods An interview with the birth mother or other responsible adult for young people sentenced to detention in Western Australia was conducted as part of the FASD assessment. The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test consumption subset (AUDIT‐C), other relevant questions, and documentary evidence were used to assess PAE. PAE was categorized according to the Australian Guide to the Diagnosis of FASD: no PAE reported, confirmed or confirmed high‐risk, or unknown. Results Among the 101 participants, information on PAE was unable to be obtained for 13 (13%) young people. Of the remaining 88 participants with information of PAE, 41 reported no PAE and 47 had confirmed PAE. Conclusions Accurately assessing prenatal alcohol consumption is challenging in any setting, but it is exceptionally challenging when assessed 13 to 17 years retrospectively as part of a FASD assessment for a young person sentenced to detention. Recording and recoding detailed qualitative responses was required to provide an accurate assessment of PAE using the AUDIT‐C. Standardized recording of PAE in antenatal and birth records would facilitate later assessments for FASD and provide opportunities for advice and support for women who continue to drink during pregnancy., This study discusses the challenges of assessing prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) as part of a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder assessment for young people sentenced to detention in Western Australia. PAE was assessed using the AUDIT‐C with the birth mother or another responsible adult who was present during the mother's pregnancy. Recording and recoding detailed qualitative responses was required to provide an accurate assessment of PAE, as recalling prenatal alcohol consumption retrospectively, 13 to 17 years post‐pregnancy, is challenging.

Background Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a condition caused by prenatal alcohol exposure and characterised by lifelong physical, behavioural and cognitive abnormalities. Primary disabilities, such as impairment in memory, attention, cognition, language, executive function, and adaptive function, can lead to young people with FASD becoming engaged with the justice system. Little is known about the extent of FASD in youth detention in Australia, or of the capacity custodial staff have to manage and support young people with FASD. In tandem with a study assessing the prevalence of FASD among youth in detention in Western Australia (WA), this study aims to establish the current knowledge, attitudes, experiences and practices regarding FASD and other neurodevelopmental impairments among youth custodial officers in order to develop training resources for this workforce. Methods We invited youth custodial officers in the only youth detention centre in WA to participate in an online or hardcopy survey. The survey was developed following extensive consultation with the workforce and investigated their knowledge, attitudes, experiences and practices relating to FASD and other neurodevelopmental impairments. This included experience working with young people with FASD and other impairments, and attitudes towards relevant training. Results 112 youth custodial officers (51% of the youth custodial workforce) completed the survey. While many respondents had heard of FASD (77%) and understood it is relevant to the justice system (74%), limited in-depth FASD knowledge existed. Many respondents were unsure or unaware that FASD is permanent brain damage (53%) and cannot be outgrown (57%). Respondents were infrequently informed if a young person in detention had a diagnosis of FASD. Almost all custodial officers indicated motivation to complete training to further understand FASD (92%) and other neurodevelopmental impairments (94%), with particular interest in the application of management strategies appropriate for affected young people. Conclusions A lack of specific knowledge, inadequate training to recognise and manage young people with neurodevelopmental impairments, and inconsistent information-sharing processes reduce the ability of the custodial workforce to care for young people with FASD and other neurodevelopmental impairments. These findings have supported the development and evaluation of training resources targeting the specific needs and requests of the WA youth custodial workforce, and this is now underway.

Background Unmet language and literacy needs are common among young people who are involved with youth justice systems. However, there is limited research regarding the functional text-level language skills of this population with regard to narrative macrostructure (story grammar) and microstructure (semantics and syntax) elements. Methods In this study, we examined macrostructure and microstructure elements in the oral and written narrative texts of 24 adolescent students of a youth detention centre. The students, who were aged 14- to 17- years, were all speakers of Standard Australian English, and 11 (46%) students met criteria for language disorder (LD). Findings When we compared the narratives according to modality of language, the students demonstrated stronger narrative language skills in the written modality compared to the oral. However, when we compared the narratives according to language ability, we found that the impact of LD on inclusion of macrostructure elements was greater in the oral modality, and for microstructure elements, was greater in the written modality. Errors in written conventions were common among both students with and without LD. Conclusions Our results indicate that both the modality of language as well as the presence of LD should be considered when young people are required to participate in forensic contexts including programs that address educational and rehabilitation needs. Our results indicate a need for consistent text-level language assessment to better identify and respond to functional difficulties within language and literacy. There is potential for speech-language pathology services to enhance comprehensive assessment as well as inform educational and rehabilitation programs for young people who are involved with youth justice systems.

Little is known about the significance of cultural differences to how caregivers receive a diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disability. As part of a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder prevalence study among sentenced, detained youth, our qualitative study explored the experiences of diagnostic assessment among detained young people and their caregivers. We present findings from the perspectives of caregivers. In conversation with the sociology of diagnosis literature, we present vignettes of three Aboriginal and two non-Aboriginal caregivers' experiences of the diagnostic assessment process. We found that Aboriginal caregivers conceptualised their children's diagnosis and ongoing management in the context of their family networks and community. In contrast, non-Aboriginal caregivers focused on how the diagnosis would affect their child and interactions with various institutions including healthcare systems and schools. Caregivers' engagement with diagnostic reports and resources also followed cultural lines. Reflections on intergenerational drinking were voiced by Aboriginal caregivers, who expressed shame at receiving diagnosis. These findings advance our appreciation of cultural difference in receiving a diagnosis, the examination of which is in its nascent stages. We also suggest ways to mitigate harm from a stigmatising diagnosis and soften the well-established effects of medical dominance over the process of defining a person's capacity and status.

Undertaking research with young people presents an array of methodological challenges. We report the findings from a qualitative study that took place alongside a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) prevalence study among detainees in Australia. Of 38 participants, 27 were Aboriginal youth. Interviews were conducted using “social yarning” and “research topic yarning,” an Indigenous research method which allows for data collection in an exploratory, culturally safe way. A complex interplay emerged between social yarning and research topic yarning which provided a space to explore responsively with participants their experiences of FASD assessments. Flexibility, including language adaptation and visual descriptions about assessments, was utilized to assist participants recall and retell their experiences. There were, however, challenges in gathering data on the assessment experiences of some participants. We describe how employing a “yarning” method for collecting data could benefit children and young people undergoing neurodevelopmental assessments in the future. Refereed/Peer-reviewed

Background/aim Few studies have examined graphomotor skills in children with prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) or fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). Methods Graphomotor skills were assessed in 108 predominantly Australian Aboriginal children aged 7.5–9.6 years in remote Western Australia using clinical observations (pencil grasp; writing pressure) and standardised assessment tools (the Evaluation Tool of Children's Handwriting; and the Miller Function and Participation Scales – The Draw-a-Kid Game). Skills were compared between children (i) without PAE, (ii) PAE but not FASD and (iii) FASD. Results Most children used a transitional pencil grasp and exerted heavy handwriting pressure (83.3% and 30.6% of the cohort). The percentage of letters (M = 62.9%) and words (M = 73.3%) written legibly was low. Children with FASD were more likely than children without PAE to use a cross-thumb grasp (P = 0.027), apply heavy writing pressure (P = 0.036), be unable to write a sentence (P = 0.041) and show poorer word legibility (P = 0.041). There were no significant differences between groups for drawing outcomes, although some children with FASD drew pictures that appeared delayed for their age. There were no significant differences between children without PAE and those with PAE but who were not diagnosed with FASD. Conclusions Overall, graphomotor skills were poor in this cohort, but children with FASD performed significantly worse than children without PAE. Findings suggest the need for improved occupational therapy services for children in remote regions and evaluation of graphomotor skills in children with PAE.

Aim This study aimed to determine the gross motor (GM) performance of Aboriginal children living in remote Australia. The relationship between GM skills, prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) was explored. Methods A population-based observation study was conducted in 2011 to assess motor performance in children living in the Fitzroy Valley, Western Australia, using the Bruininks–Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOT-2). BOT-2 data were retrospectively analysed using recently developed software enabling separation of fine and GM outcomes. Results A total of 108 children (98.1% Aboriginal; 53% male, mean age: 8.7 years) were assessed. Half (52.2%) were exposed to at least ‘risky’ levels of PAE, and 21 (19%) were diagnosed with an FASD. The mean GM composite score of the cohort (47.0 ± 8.4) approached the BOT-2 normative mean (50.0 ± 10) and was similar between children with and without PAE (P = 0.27). This mean score, however, was significantly lower in children with FASD than without (mean difference: −5.5 ± 20.6; P = 0.006). Compared with children without FASD, children with FASD had significant impairment in subtests for running speed and agility (mean difference ± standard deviation (SD): −2.4 ± 8.1; P = 0.003) and strength (mean difference ± SD:−2.8 ± 9.9; P = 0.004) and (ii) a higher proportion than expected had overall GM impairment (≤2 SD: 9.5%; ≤1 SD: 23.8%). In groups with PAE, no PAE and no FASD, GM function approached expected population norms. Conclusions A higher than expected proportion of children with FASD had GM scores that indicated impairment and need for therapy. Evaluation of GM performance should routinely be included in FASD assessment to determine strategies to optimise child development.

Background Aboriginal leaders invited us to examine the frequency and reasons for children presenting to Fitzroy Crossing Hospital emergency department (ED), Western Australia.Methods ED presentations (2007-11 inclusive) were examined for children born in the Fitzroy Valley in 2002-03.Results ED data were examined for 127/134 (94.7%) eligible children, with 1058 presentations for 1743 conditions in children aged 3-9 over 5 years. Most (81%) had at least one ED presentation (median 9.0, range 1-50). There were no differences by sex or season but numbers of presentations increased over time. Common presentations included: injury (15.1%), diseases of the ear (14.9%), skin (13.8%), respiratory tract (13.4%), infectious and parasitic diseases (9.8%), screening, follow up, and social reasons (16.0%). Household over-crowding, financial and food insecurity were common socio-economic factors recorded at ED presentation. Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) was significantly associated with high-frequency (>10) ED presentations.Conclusion Children in very remote Fitzroy Crossing communities have high rates of preventable ED presentations, with higher rates in those with than without PAE. Support for culturally appropriate preventative programs and improved access to health services need to be provided in remote Australia.

Background While studies confirm high prevalence of language disorder among justice-involved young people, little is known about the impact of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) on language among this population. It is also not clear how language skills vary according to language diversity in Australian youth justice settings, where a disproportionate number of justice-involved youth are Aboriginal and may not speak Standard Australian English (SAE) as their first language. Language skills are important to understand, as language disorder and language difference can lead to a mismatch between the communication skills of a young person and the communication skills of the justice workforce with whom they are communicating. In the highly verbal environments that are common to justice systems, language disorder and language difference may result in a young person misunderstanding legal information and expectations placed on them and not being adequately understood by the justice workforce. Methods This study examined the language skills of 98 young people sentenced to detention in Western Australia (WA), who participated in a cross-sectional study examining the prevalence of FASD. Language skills assessed using standardised and non-standardised tasks were analysed by the three major language groups identified: speakers of SAE, Aboriginal English and English as an additional language. Results We identified rich diversity of languages, and multilingualism was common. Most young people for whom English was not their first language demonstrated difficulties in SAE competence. Further, nearly one in two young people were identified with language disorder – over half of whom had language disorder associated with FASD. Conclusions This study has documented language diversity and the prevalence of language disorder associated with FASD among a representative sample of youth sentenced to detention in WA. Results underscore the need for the justice workforce to consider language difference when working with justice-involved youth, as well as language disorder and FASD. The findings also demonstrate the need for speech pathology to be embedded as core service in youth justice systems, working in collaboration with local cultural and language advisors and accredited interpreters. This can better enable appropriate identification of and response to communication and associated rehabilitation needs of young people navigating youth justice systems.

Introduction and Aims We aimed to characterise motor performance in predominantly Aboriginal children living in very remote Australia, where rates of prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) are high. Motor performance was assessed, and the relationship between motor skills, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) and PAE was explored. Design and Methods Motor performance was assessed using the Bruininks–Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency—Second Edition Complete Form, in a population-based study of children born in 2002 or 2003 living in the Fitzroy Valley, Western Australia. Composite scores ≥2SD (2nd percentile) and ≥1SD (16th percentile) below the mean were used respectively for FASD diagnosis and referral for treatment. FASD diagnoses were assigned using modified Canadian Guidelines. Results A total of 108 children (Aboriginal: 98.1%; male: 53%) with a mean age of 8.7 years was assessed. The cohort's mean total motor composite score (mean ± SD 47.2 ± 7.6) approached the Bruininks–Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency—Second Edition normative mean (50 ± 10). Motor performance was lower in children with FASD diagnosis than without (mean difference (MD) ± SD: −5.0 ± 1.8; confidence interval: −8.6 to −1.5). There was no difference between children with PAE than without (MD ± SE: −2.2 ± 1.5; confidence interval: −5.1 to 0.80). The prevalence of motor impairment (≥−2SD) was 1.9% in the entire cohort, 9.5% in children with FASD, 3.3% in children with PAE and 0.0% both in children without PAE or FASD. Discussion and Conclusions. Almost of 10% of children with FASD has significant motor impairment. Evaluation of motor function should routinely be included in assessments for FASD, to document impairment and enable targeted early intervention.[Lucas BR, Doney R, Latimer J, Watkins RE, Tsang TW, Hawkes G, Fitzpatrick JP, Oscar J, Carter M, Elliott EJ. Impairment of motor skills in children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders in remote Australia: The Lililwan Project. Drug Alcohol Rev 2016;35:719–727]

Introduction and Aims Alcohol use in pregnancy is thought to be common in remote Australian communities, but no population-based data are available. Aboriginal leaders in remote Western Australia invited researchers to determine the prevalence and patterns of alcohol use in pregnancy within their communities. Design and Methods A population-based survey of caregivers of all children born in 2002/2003 and living in the Fitzroy Valley in 2010/2011 (n = 134). Alcohol use risk was categorised using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test consumption subset (AUDIT-C) tool. Birth and child outcomes were determined by interview, medical record review and physical examination. Results 127/134 (95%) eligible caregivers participated: 78% were birth mothers, 95% were Aboriginal and 55% reported alcohol use in index pregnancies; 88% reported first trimester drinking and 53% drinking in all trimesters. AUDIT-C scores were calculated for 115/127 women, of whom 60 (52%) reported alcohol use in pregnancy. Of the 60 women who drank (AUDIT-C score ≥ 1), 12% drank daily/almost daily, 33% drank 2–3 times per week; 71% drank ≥ 10 standard drinks on a typical occasion; 95% drank at risky or high-risk levels (AUDIT-C score ≥ 4). Mean AUDIT-C score was 8.5 ± 2.3 (range 2–12). The most common drinking pattern was consumption of ≥10 standard drinks either 2–4 times per month (27%) or 2–3 times per week (27%). Discussion and Conclusions High-risk alcohol use in pregnancy is common in remote, predominantly Aboriginal communities in north western Australia. Prevention strategies to reduce prenatal alcohol use are urgently needed. [Fitzpatrick JP, Latimer J, Ferreira ML, Carter M, Oscar J, Martiniuk ALC, Watkins RE, Elliott EJ. Prevalence and patterns of alcohol use in pregnancy in remote Western Australian communities: The Lililwan Project. Drug Alcohol Rev 2015]

Background Many children in the remote Fitzroy Valley region of Western Australia have prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE). Individuals with PAE can have neurodevelopmental impairments and be diagnosed with one of several types of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Fine motor skills can be impaired by PAE, but no studies have developed a comprehensive profile of fine motor skills in a population-based cohort of children with FASD. We aimed to develop a comprehensive profile of fine motor skills in a cohort of Western Australian children; determine whether these differed in children with PAE or FASD; and establish the prevalence of impairment. Methods Children (n = 108, 7 to 9 years) were participants in a population-prevalence study of FASD in Western Australia. Fine motor skills were assessed using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, which provided a Fine Motor Composite score, and evaluated Fine Manual Control (Fine Motor Precision; Fine Motor Integration) and Manual Coordination (Manual Dexterity; Upper-Limb Coordination). Descriptive statistics were reported for the overall cohort; and comparisons made between children with and without PAE and/or FASD. The prevalence of severe (≤ 2nd percentile) and moderate (≤16th percentile) impairments was determined. Results Overall, Fine Motor Composite scores were ‘average’ (M = 48.6 ± 7.4), as were Manual Coordination (M = 55.7 ± 7.9) and Fine Manual Control scores (M = 42.5 ± 6.2). Children with FASD had significantly lower Fine Motor Composite (M = 45.2 ± 7.7 p = 0.046) and Manual Coordination scores (M = 51.8 ± 7.3, p = 0.027) than children without PAE (Fine Motor Composite M = 49.8 ± 7.2; Manual Coordination M = 57.0 ± 7.7). Few children had severe impairment, but rates of moderate impairment were very high. Conclusions Different types of fine motor skills should be evaluated in children with PAE or FASD. The high prevalence of fine motor impairment in our cohort, even in children without PAE, highlights the need for therapeutic intervention for many children in remote communities.

Aim There is increasing attention on fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) in Australia, but there are limited data on their birth prevalence. Our aim was to report on the birth prevalence of FASD in Western Australia. Methods Data on notified cases of FASD born in Western Australia 1980–2010 were identified from the Western Australian Register of Developmental Anomalies. Tabulated denominator data were obtained from the Midwives Notification System. Prevalence rates per 1000 births were calculated by demographic variables. Prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of Aboriginal compared with non-Aboriginal prevalence rates were calculated. PRs were also calculated to compare rates for births 2000–2010 with 1980–1989. Results Two hundred ten cases of FASDs were identified: a birth prevalence of 0.26/1000 births (95% CI 0.23–0.30). The majority of cases reported were Aboriginal (89.5%), a rate of 4.08/1000, compared with 0.03/1000 in notified non-Aboriginal cases, giving a PR of 139 (95% CI 89–215). The prevalence of FASD in 2000–2010 was over twice that in 1980–1989 for both Aboriginal (PR 2.37; CI 1.60–3.51) and non-Aboriginal (PR 2.13; CI 0.68–6.69) children. Conclusions There has been a twofold increase in FASD notifications in Western Australia over the last 30 years. Population surveillance data such as these are valuable in advocating for and monitoring the effectiveness of preventive activities and diagnostic and management services.

Background Debate continues regarding the effectiveness of Family Witnessed Resuscitation and little is known about the reasons why staff invite family presence. Aim Explore why health professionals invite or not invite Family Witnessed Resuscitation. Design Descriptive qualitative study. Method Three open-ended questions enabled 114 clinicians to describe why they would or would not invite family presence. Data were analysed using qualitative data analysis. Results Four themes representing factors that influenced staff decision to invite or not invite Family Witnessed Resuscitation were identified: motivating factors , personal choice , staff judgment , and organisational factors . Motivating factors described reasons to invite family presence, and staff and organisational factors were reasons to not invite family presence. Conclusion Family presence can be beneficial for staff and family and is likely to be motivated by family-specific factors where this choice is appropriate for all stakeholders. Participants described factors that can impact on the appropriateness of inviting family presence and these need to be considered before an invitation is extended. Relevance to practice To support all parties throughout the process it is imperative that a skilled support person be available to the family and that written policies and guidelines be available for staff.

Background Despite multiple risk factors for neurodevelopmental vulnerability, few studies have assessed neurodevelopmental performance of Australian Aboriginal children. An important risk factor for neurodevelopmental vulnerability is prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE), which places children at risk for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Aims This study assesses neurodevelopment outcomes in a population of Australian Aboriginal children with and without PAE. Methods and procedures Children born in 2002/2003, and living in the Fitzroy Valley, Western Australia between April 2010 and November 2011, were eligible (N = 134). Sociodemographic and antenatal data, including PAE, were collected by interview with 127/134 (95%) consenting parents/caregivers. Maternal/child medical records were reviewed. Neurodevelopment was assessed by clinicians blinded to PAE in 108/134 (81%) children and diagnoses on the FASD spectrum were assigned. Outcomes and results Neurodevelopmental disorder was documented in 34/108 children (314.8 per 1000). Any diagnosis on the FASD spectrum was made in 21/108 (194.4 per 1000) children (95% CI = 131.0–279.0). Conclusions and implications Neurodevelopmental impairment with or without PAE is highly prevalent among children in the Fitzroy Valley. Rates of diagnoses on the FASD spectrum are among the highest worldwide. Early intervention services are needed to support developmentally vulnerable children in remote communities.

Background We analysed hospital admissions of a predominantly Aboriginal cohort of children in the remote Fitzroy Valley in Western Australia during the first 7 years of life. Methods All children born between January 1, 2002 and December 31, 2003 and living in the Fitzroy Valley in 2009–2010 were eligible to participate in the Lililwan Project. Of 134 eligible children, 127 (95%) completed Stage 1 (interviews of caregivers and medical record review) in 2011 and comprised our cohort. Lifetime (0–7 years) hospital admission data were available and included the dates, and reasons for admission, and comorbidities. Conditions were coded using ICD-10-AM discharge codes. Results Of the 127 children, 95.3% were Indigenous and 52.8% male. There were 314 admissions for 424 conditions in 89 (70.0%) of 127 children. The 89 children admitted had a median of five admissions (range 1–12). Hospitalization rates were similar for both genders (p = 0.4). Of the admissions, 108 (38.6%) were for 56 infants aged

Aim. The aim of the study was to assess health professionals knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents accessing health care for their children. Background. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents can be reluctant to reveal their sexual orientation to health professionals, and consequently, they may not receive adequate or timely provision of health care. Currently, there is little research in this area. Design. Descriptive, comparative study of 86 health professionals using a cross-sectional survey design with a set of validated, anonymous questionnaires. Method. Associations between variables were assessed using chi-squared tests of independence, and differences between groups were assessed using the Mann-Whitney U-test or the Kruskal-Wallis one-way analysis of variance test. Content analysis was used to examine responses to open-ended questions. Results. Knowledge and attitude scores were significantly associated with race, religious beliefs, frequency of attendance at religious services and having a friend who is openly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender. Conclusions. Information gained from this study will assist clinicians and hospital management to develop policies and practices that ensure lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender families receive equitable, high-quality and holistic health care. Relevance to clinical practice. Properly implemented family-centred care is an ideal model to provide care for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender families. However, the benefits of family-centred care can only be realised fully if health professionals delivering that care are sensitive to the context, functions and constructs of all the families they encounter.

Aim: To explore the experiences of lesbian, gay and transgender families accessing health care for their children.

Aim To identify soft neurological signs (SNS) in a population-based study of children living in remote Aboriginal communities in the Fitzroy Valley, Western Australia, born between 2002 and 2003 and explore the relationship between SNS, prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE), and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Method The presence of SNS was assessed using the Quick Neurological Screening Test, 2nd edition (QNST-2), which has a total maximum score of 140. Higher scores indicated more SNS. ‘Severe discrepancy’ was defined as scores less than or equal to the fifth centile while ‘moderate discrepancy’ represented scores from the sixth to the 24th centile. Children were assigned FASD diagnoses using modified Canadian FASD diagnostic guidelines. Results A total of 108 of 134 (80.6%) eligible children (mean age 8y 9mo, SD=6mo, 53% male) were assessed. The median QNST-2 Total Score for all participants was within the normal category (19.0, range 4–66). However, the median QNST-2 Total Score was higher in children with than without (1) PAE (r=0.2, p=0.045) and (2) FASD (r=0.3, p=0.004). Half (8/16) of children scoring ‘moderate discrepancy’ and all (2/2) children scoring ‘severe discrepancy’ had at least three domains of central nervous system impairment. Interpretation SNS were more common in children with PAE or FASD, consistent with the known neurotoxic effect of PAE. The QNST-2 is a useful screen for subtle neurological dysfunction indicating the need for more comprehensive assessment in children with PAE or FASD.

Background Visual-motor integration (VMI) skills are essential for successful academic performance, but to date no studies have assessed these skills in a population-based cohort of Australian Aboriginal children who, like many children in other remote, disadvantaged communities, consistently underperform academically. Furthermore, many children in remote areas of Australia have prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), which are often associated with VMI deficits. Methods VMI, visual perception, and fine motor coordination were assessed using The Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration, including its associated subtests of Visual Perception and Fine Motor Coordination, in a cohort of predominantly Australian Aboriginal children (7.5–9.6 years, n = 108) in remote Western Australia to explore whether PAE adversely affected test performance. Cohort results were reported, and comparisons made between children i) without PAE; ii) with PAE (no FASD); and iii) FASD. The prevalence of moderate (≤16th percentile) and severe (≤2nd percentile) impairment was established. Results Mean VMI scores were ‘below average’ (M = 87.8 ± 9.6), and visual perception scores were ‘average’ (M = 97.6 ± 12.5), with no differences between groups. Few children had severe VMI impairment (1.9%), but moderate impairment rates were high (47.2%). Children with FASD had significantly lower fine motor coordination scores and higher moderate impairment rates (M = 87.9 ± 12.5; 66.7%) than children without PAE (M = 95.1 ± 10.7; 23.3%) and PAE (no FASD) (M = 96.1 ± 10.9; 15.4%). Conclusions Aboriginal children living in remote Western Australia have poor VMI skills regardless of PAE or FASD. Children with FASD additionally had fine motor coordination problems. VMI and fine motor coordination should be assessed in children with PAE, and included in FASD diagnostic assessments.

Background Prenatal alcohol exposure is an important modifiable cause of adverse fetal outcomes during and following pregnancy. Midwives are key providers of antenatal care, and it is important to understand the factors which influence their ability to provide appropriate advice and support to women about alcohol use in pregnancy. The main aim of this study was to develop a psychometrically valid scale to evaluate midwives’ beliefs about assessing alcohol use during pregnancy. Method A self-administered questionnaire was developed to evaluate midwives’ beliefs about assessing alcohol use during pregnancy, including beliefs about positive and negative consequences of asking about alcohol use, and beliefs about capacity to assess alcohol use. The questionnaire was sent to 245 midwives working for a state-wide country health service in Western Australia. Exploratory factor analysis was used to identify the latent constructs assessed by the 36 belief items and provide initial construct validation of the Asking About Alcohol (AAA) Scale. Results Of the 166 (67.8 %) midwives who responded to the survey, 160 (96.4 %) completed one or more of the belief items and were included in this analysis. Factor analysis identified six subscales which assessed beliefs about discomfort, capacity, effectiveness, role, trust and knowledge. Midwives held the most positive beliefs about their capacity to ask and the effectiveness of asking about alcohol use, and the least positive beliefs about women’s knowledge about alcohol use and discomfort associated with asking about alcohol use in pregnancy. Midwives’ beliefs about their role and the effectiveness of asking were most strongly associated with the intention to ask all pregnant women about alcohol use during pregnancy (r = −0.59, p

The objective of this study was to describe the expectations about future opportunities in Australia among prospective Vietnamese migrants, and the association of these expectations with individual characteristics. We surveyed 1,352 prospective Vietnamese migrants aged 16 years or more who were recruited from a pre-departure medical screening programme for an Australian visa. Prospective migrants generally believed that future educational, socio-economic and employment opportunities in Australia were better than in Vietnam. Pre-migration socio-demographic characteristics and perceived health status were significantly and independently associated with expectations about future opportunities in Australia. Migrant expectations about educa tional, socio-economic and employment opportunities in Australia are modified by individual socio-demographic and health-related characteristics, which may also influence experiences post-migration.

ObjectivesTo estimate the prevalence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) among young people in youth detention in Australia. Neurodevelopmental impairments due to FASD can predispose young people to engagement with the law. Canadian studies identified FASD in 11%–23% of young people in corrective services, but there are no data for Australia.DesignMultidisciplinary assessment of all young people aged 10–17 years 11 months and sentenced to detention in the only youth detention centre in Western Australia, from May 2015 to December 2016. FASD was diagnosed according to the Australian Guide to the Diagnosis of FASD.Participants99 young people completed a full assessment (88% of those consented; 60% of the 166 approached to participate); 93% were male and 74% were Aboriginal.Findings88 young people (89%) had at least one domain of severe neurodevelopmental impairment, and 36 were diagnosed with FASD, a prevalence of 36% (95% CI 27% to 46%).ConclusionsThis study, in a representative sample of young people in detention in Western Australia, has documented a high prevalence of FASD and severe neurodevelopmental impairment, the majority of which had not been previously identified. These findings highlight the vulnerability of young people, particularly Aboriginal youth, within the justice system and their significant need for improved diagnosis to identify their strengths and difficulties, and to guide and improve their rehabilitation.

The Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK) has been used to identify people with back pain who have high levels of "fear of movement" to direct them into fear reduction interventions. However, there is considerable debate as to what construct(s) the scale measures. Somatic Focus and Activity Avoidance subscales identified in factor analytic studies remain poorly defined. Using a mixed methods design, this study sought to understand the beliefs that underlie high scores on the TSK to better understand what construct(s) it measures.In-depth qualitative interviews with 36 adults with chronic nonspecific low back pain (average duration=7 y), scoring highly on the TSK (average score=47/68), were conducted. Following inductive analysis of transcripts, individuals were classified into groups on the basis of underlying beliefs. Associations between groups and itemized scores on the TSK and subscales were explored. Frequencies of response for each item were evaluated.Two main beliefs were identified: (1) The belief that painful activity will result in damage; and (2) The belief that painful activity will increase suffering and/or functional loss. The Somatic Focus subscale was able to discriminate between the 2 belief groups lending construct validity to the subscale. Ambiguous wording of the Activity Avoidance subscale may explain limitations in discriminate ability.The TSK may be better described as a measure of the "beliefs that painful activity will result in damage and/or increased suffering and/or functional loss."

There is increasing attention on fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) in Australia, but there are limited data on their birth prevalence. Our aim was to report on the birth prevalence of FASD in Western Australia.Data on notified cases of FASD born in Western Australia 1980-2010 were identified from the Western Australian Register of Developmental Anomalies. Tabulated denominator data were obtained from the Midwives Notification System. Prevalence rates per 1000 births were calculated by demographic variables. Prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of Aboriginal compared with non-Aboriginal prevalence rates were calculated. PRs were also calculated to compare rates for births 2000-2010 with 1980-1989.Two hundred ten cases of FASDs were identified: a birth prevalence of 0.26/1000 births (95% CI 0.23-0.30). The majority of cases reported were Aboriginal (89.5%), a rate of 4.08/1000, compared with 0.03/1000 in notified non-Aboriginal cases, giving a PR of 139 (95% CI 89-215). The prevalence of FASD in 2000-2010 was over twice that in 1980-1989 for both Aboriginal (PR 2.37; CI 1.60-3.51) and non-Aboriginal (PR 2.13; CI 0.68-6.69) children.There has been a twofold increase in FASD notifications in Western Australia over the last 30 years. Population surveillance data such as these are valuable in advocating for and monitoring the effectiveness of preventive activities and diagnostic and management services.

Chronic nonspecific low-back pain (CLBP) is a prevalent, costly condition that is remarkably resistant to intervention. Substantial evidence suggests that a mismatch exists between the biomedical beliefs held by clinicians and patients and the biopsychosocial nature of CLBP experience. The aim of this metasynthesis of qualitative studies was to provide clinicians with a richer understanding of their patients' CLBP experience to highlight the importance of moving away from biomedical paradigms in the clinical management of CLBP.Qualitative studies exploring the CLBP experience from the perspective of the individual were included. Twenty-five articles representing 18 studies involving 713 participants were subjected to the 3-stage analytic process of extraction/coding, grouping, and abstraction.Three main themes emerged: the social construction of CLBP; the psychosocial impact of the nature of CLBP; and coping with CLBP.The authors conceptualize the experience of CLBP as biographical suspension in which 3 aspects of suspension are described: suspended "wellness," suspended "self," and suspended "future". The implications of improved clinician understanding of the CLBP experience and directions for future research are discussed.

Background There is little reliable information on the prevalence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) in Australia and no coordinated national approach to facilitate case detection. The aim of this study was to identify health professionals’ perceptions about screening for FASD in Australia. Method A modified Delphi process was used to assess perceptions of the need for, and the process of, screening for FASD in Australia. We recruited a panel of 130 Australian health professionals with experience or expertise in FASD screening or diagnosis. A systematic review of the literature was used to develop Likert statements on screening coverage, components and assessment methods which were administered using an online survey over two survey rounds. Results Of the panel members surveyed, 95 (73%) responded to the questions on screening in the first survey round and, of these, 81 (85%) responded to the second round. Following two rounds there was consensus agreement on the need for targeted screening at birth (76%) and in childhood (84%). Participants did not reach consensus agreement on the need for universal screening at birth (55%) or in childhood (40%). Support for targeted screening was linked to perceived constraints on service provision and the need to examine the performance, costs and benefits of screening. For targeted screening of high risk groups, we found highest agreement for siblings of known cases of FASD (96%) and children of mothers attending alcohol treatment services (93%). Participants agreed that screening for FASD primarily requires assessment of prenatal alcohol exposure at birth (86%) and in childhood (88%), and that a checklist is needed to identify the components of screening and criteria for referral at birth (84%) and in childhood (90%). Conclusions There is an agreed need for targeted but not universal screening for FASD in Australia, and sufficient consensus among health professionals to warrant development and evaluation of standardised methods for targeted screening and referral in the Australian context. Participants emphasised the need for locally-appropriate, evidence-based approaches to facilitate case detection, and the importance of ensuring that screening and referral programs are supported by adequate diagnostic and management capacity.

Aims and objectives: To ascertain health professionals’ knowledge, attitudes and beliefs towards lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents seeking health care for their children in a paediatric tertiary hospital setting which practises family-centred care Background: Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents are often reluctant to disclose their sexual orientation to health professionals for fear of discrimination and compromised quality of care. Staff knowledge, attitudes and beliefs can influence disclosure by parents, but little is known about knowledge, attitudes and beliefs in paediatric tertiary hospital staff towards lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents accessing care for their children. Design: Descriptive comparative study of health staff using a cross-sectional survey. Methods: A set of validated anonymous questionnaires was used to assess knowledge about homosexuality, attitudes towards lesbians and gay men, and gay affirmative practice. Three open-ended questions were also used to assess beliefs about encouraging disclosure of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parenting roles and how this may impact on care. Results: Of the 646 staff surveyed, 212 (32·8%) responded. Knowledge and attitudes were significantly associated with professional group, gender, Caucasian race, political voting behaviour, presence of religious beliefs, the frequency of attendance at religious services, the frequency of praying, and having a friend who was openly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender. Conclusion: This study highlighted that staff working in a tertiary paediatric hospital setting, with family-centred care models in place, held attitudes and beliefs that may impact on the experience of hospitalisation for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents, and the quality of care received by their children. Relevance to clinical practice: To promote equitable care to all families, organisations should ensure that family-centred care policies and guidelines are adopted and appropriately implemented. In addition to formal education, affirmative health service action and innovative methods may be required.

Background: Few studies have examined the issues faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT)-parented families in relation to their access to and satisfaction with healthcare services for their children. It is thought that LGBT individuals have experienced negative interactions with the healthcare environment. Aims: To systematically review the literature investigating the experience of LGBT parents seeking health care for their children. Methods: A search of the following databases: Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Embase, Google Scholar, Medline, PsychInfo, Science Direct, Sociological Abstracts, Proquest, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted. Using the PRISMA flow chart and processes of the United Kingdom Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, we selected and analysed relevant studies. Findings: Four studies that met the inclusion criteria were identified. Studies showed that while the experience of LGBT parents seeking health care was largely positive, strategies need to be implemented to improve the quality of healthcare services for LGBT families and ensure that their needs are met. Discussion: Although many LGBT parents have positive experiences of health care, some still experience discrimination and prejudice. Implications for practice: Specific educational interventions are needed to support LGBT parents seeking health care for their children. Conclusions: Further research is required to explore LGBT-parented families' experiences of healthcare services, and this should include children's experiences.