Social connectedness and self-perceived health of older adults in New Zealand.

The objective of this research was to explore social connectedness and associations with self-perceived health amongst older adults in New Zealand at a population level. The data for this analysis were derived from the 2016 Health and Lifestyle Survey, a nationally representative survey administered via face-to-face interviews. The findings from this analysis of 1,374 respondents, all of whom were over the age of 55 years, highlight that being female, belonging to older age groups (above 70 years), being employed full-time or part-time, connecting online with known people, considering cultural connections to be important and not feeling isolated from others are significantly and positively associated with positive self-perceived health.

Axillary traction: An effective method of resolving shoulder dystocia.

Background: At Counties Manukau Health in Auckland, New Zealand, axillary traction is being used when an internal manoeuvre is required for resolution of shoulder dystocia.

Aims: This study presents the outcomes for mother and baby from use of axillary traction and other internal manoeuvres.

Materials And Methods: Retrospective review of the clinical records of mother and baby for all labours complicated by shoulder dystocia was carried out for an eight-year period.