2020 Showcase of Health Research

OF HEALTH RESEARCH

Conference Program

February 7, 2020

Victoria Inn Hotel & Convention Centre

Thunder Bay, ON

Showcase of Health Research

Since 2006, the Centre for Applied Health Research at St. Joseph’s Care Group has hosted what has become the premier annual venue for the dissemination of research relevant to the health of Northwestern Ontarians.

The Centre for Applied Health Research is pleased to host the 2020 Showcase of Health Research.

This event is made possible through the generous support of the Leadership Team at St. Joseph’s Care Group.

Paper Presentations

8:30am Registration and Poster Set-up

9:00 am Welcome & Opening Remarks

MichelBédard,Scientific Director, Centre for Applied Health Research, St. Joseph’s Care Group

Tracy Buckler, President & CEO, St. Joseph’s Care Group

9:15 am Adapting, Implementing and Evaluating a Patient

Oriented Discharge Summary (PODS) to Support Rehabilitation Transitions in Care

Denise Taylor, Mary Adams, Mandy Byerley-Vita, Jack Christy, Deanne Lee, Kate Melchiorre, Heather Munro, Gail O’Quinn, Kim Tanner -- St. Joseph's Care Group

9:35 am Demographic Profile of People Accessing Personal

Identification Services in Northwestern Ontario, 20182019: A Social Determinants of Health Exploration

Elyse Cottrell-Martin, Chris Sanders, Kristin Burnett, Kelly Skinner Lakehead University, University of Waterloo

9:55 am Housing Insecurity and Criminal Justice System

Involvement for Women in Thunder Bay: Assessing Relationships and Needs

Stephanie Campbell, Rebecca Schiff, Helle Møller, Deborah Scharf, Mary Kozorys Lakehead University, Elizabeth Fry Society

10:15 am Women's Experiences of Unfounded Sexual Assault

Jodie Murphy-Oikonen, Karen McQueen, Ainsley Miller, Alexa Hiebert, Lori Chambers Lakehead University

10:35am Poster Presentations and Nutritional Break

11:05 am Thunder Bay's Joint Mobile Crisis Response Team: Evaluation of Process, Outcomes and Costs

Joshua Hawkins, Deborah Scharf, Anna Koné Péfoyo, Jennifer Hyslop, Mariah Maddock, Ryan Gibson, Mandy McMahan, Evelyne LeBlanc, Lisa Beck, Derek West Lakehead University, Canadian Mental Health Association, Thunder Bay Police Service, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

11:25 am Effectiveness of a Brief Intervention Program (First Connection) Implemented at a Children's Outpatient Mental Health Service

Alexandra Popowich, Amy Killen, Fred Schmidt Lakehead University, Children’s Centre Thunder Bay

11:45 am Emergency Medical Services Response Times to Motor Vehicle Crashes Increased over the Period 1987 to 2018 Patrick Gravelle, Sacha Dubois, David Savage, Michel Bédard Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, St. Joseph’s Care Group

12:05 pm A Narrative Approach to Understanding the Experience of Becoming and Being a Nurse: Understanding Professional Identity Formation Among New Nurses

Kathryn Halverson, Deborah Tregunno Lakehead University, Queen’s University

12:25pm

Poster Presentations and Lunch

*Presenter in Purple

Poster Presentations

1 Exploring how Personal Support Workers, Registered Practical Nurses, and Registered Nurses Enact Collaboration in LongTerm Care

Brett Caccamo, David Thompson Lakehead University

2 Workplace Ostracism and Mental Health: The Role of Rumination

Kathy Sanderson Lakehead University

3 Characteristics and Needs of Persons Admitted to an Inpatient Psychiatric Hospital with Worker's Safety and Insurance Board Coverage

M. Grace Herring, Lynn Martin, Vicki L. Kristman Lakehead University

4 Safety in the Workplace: Responses from Nokiiwin Tribal Council Community Members

Robyn O'Loughlin, Audrey Gilbeau, Vicki Kristman -- Lakehead University

5 Understanding Labour Force Participation, Work Productivity and Disability in the Indigenous Context

Vicki Kristman, Audrey Gilbeau, Grace Herring Lakehead University

6 A Pilot Approach to the Extraction and Prioritization of Recommendations for Treating Mental Health Problems, Mental Illness, and Suicide Among Indigenous Populations

Brooke Raycraft, Maggie Wilberforce, Jack Haggarty Northern Ontario School of Medicine, McMaster University, St. Joseph’s Care Group

7 Examining Mental Health Outcomes from Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) within Indigenous Populations: A Systematic Review

Kara Boles, Abbey Radford, Katie Zugic, Elaine Toombs, Jessie Lund, Christopher Mushquash Lakehead University, Dilico Anishinabek Family Care

8 Rates of Adverse Childhood Experiences in First Nations Adults

Seeking Substance Use Treatment in Northwestern Ontario

Jessie Lund, Elaine Toombs, Meagan Drebit, Tina Bobinski, John Dixon, Christopher Mushquash Lakehead University, Dilico Anishinabek Family Care

9 Unfounded Sexual Assault - The Experiences of First Nations Women

Lori Chambers, Jodie Murphy-Oikonen, Alexa Hiebert, Karen McQueen, Ainsley Miller -- Lakehead University

10 Sexual Assault: Women's Voices on The Impact of Not Being Believed by Police

Ainsley Miller, Jodie Murphy-Oikonen, Karen McQueen, Alexa Hiebert, Lori Chambers Lakehead University

11 Barriers to Emergency Health Care in Thunder Bay for People with Mental Health Conditions

Elyse Cottrell-Martin, Kristin Burnett, Geoffrey Hudson Lakehead University, Northern Ontario School of Medicine

12 Integration of an Evidence-based Tobacco Cessation Program into a Substance Use Disorder Program for Northern, Rural, and Remote Communities

Patricia M. Smith, Lisa Seamark, Katie Beck Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Lakehead University, Meno Ya Win Health Centre

13 Substance-involved In-patients in Medical and Rehabilitation Settings

Mandy Byerley-Vita, Stacey Freemantle, Kristine Quaid, Kristen Jones-Bonofilgio, Niki Kiepek -- St. Joseph's Care Group, Lakehead University, Dalhousie University

Poster Presentations (cont.)

14

15

Acting on What Mothers Told Us: Evaluating the HOPE App to Support the Mental Health of Pregnant and Postpartum

Women in Northwestern Ontario

Abigale Kent, Helle Møller, Jennifer Chisholm, Manal Alzghoul, Pauline Sameshima, Barbara Benwell Lakehead University

Measuring Adolescent Exposure to Cannabis Marketing with Real-Time Assessment: A Pilot Study

Christopher Armiento, Deborah Scharf, Rupert Klein, Anna Koné, Joshua Hawkins Lakehead University

16

17

Marijuana Use in Undergraduate Students: The Short-term Relationship Between Motives and Frequency of Use

Jaidyn Charlton, Elizabeth Grassia, Nicole Marshall, Aislin

Mushquash, Christopher Mushquash, Dwight Mazmanian, Daniel McGrath Lakehead University

Promoting Resilience in Youth Transitioning to University: User Experience with a Smartphone App

Angela MacIsaac, Aislin Mushquash, Shakira Mohammed, Christine Wekerle, Savanah Smith Lakehead University, McMaster University

18

19

Analysis of Strength Domains and Association with Individual and Social Well-being Among Adolescents

Tiffany Leung, Edward Rawana, Rupert Klein Lakehead University

Which Came First? Exploring the Reciprocal Relations Between Impulsivity and Binge Eating

Kendra Ryan, Elizabeth Grassia, Aislin Mushquash, Laura McGeown, Christopher Mushquash, Daniel McGrath -- Lakehead University, University of Calgary

20

Client Satisfaction of Chronic Pain Management Program

Carmela White, Mary Donaghy St. Joseph's Care Group

21 Mood Disorders in Cancer Patients with Arthritis

Umme Kabir, Anna Péfoyo, Deborah Scharf Lakehead University

22 The Impact of Major Depressive Disorder and Multimorbidity on Health Care Utilization Among Cancer Patients

Umme Kabir, Anna Péfoyo, Deborah Scharf Lakehead University

23 Quality of Life and Care Experience among Complex Cancer Patients

Joshua Hawkins, Deborah Scharf, Anna Koné Péfoyo, Jewel Kozik, Ekjot Grewal Lakehead University

24 Care Experience of Patients with Cancer and Multimorbidity

Jewel Kozik, Anna Koné, Joshua Hawkins, Deborah Scharf, Taslim Alani-Verjee Lakehead University, Silm Centre for Mental Health

25 Clinical Experience of a Northern Ontario Multidisciplinary Cardio-Oncology Clinic: An Observational Retrospective Study

Peter Smylie, H Svyst, N Laferriere, K Roberts, K Melenchuk, A Alaref, O Aseyev Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

26 WE-Can Do it Together and We Should: A Salutogenic Perspective on a Wellness and Exercise Program for Individuals with Cancer

Tracey Larocque, Kelly-Jo Gillis, Ian Newhouse, Samantha Morris Lakehead University, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

27 Becoming One with Nature: A Nature Intervention for Individuals Living with Cancer Partaking in a Ten-Week Group Exercise and Educational Program

Samantha Morris, Ian Newhouse, Tracey Larocque, Kelly JoGillis, Leanne Smith Lakehead University

Poster Presentations (cont.)

28 "I've already done that many?": Exploring the Use of Fitness Trackers as a Health Promotion Intervention for Employees in a Hospital Setting

Erin Pearson, Courtney Kennedy, Kelly-Jo Gillis, Sara Hyett, Shalyn Littlefield, Kathryn Sinden, Gordon Porter Lakehead University, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

29 The Power of Softness: Exploring the Perspectives of Experienced Healthy Older Adults Participating in a Community-Based Tai Chi Program

Nerida Koert van der Linden, Erin Pearson, John Gotwals, Taryn Klarner, Erin Cameron -- Lakehead University, Northern Ontario School of Medicine

30 Experts Prioritize Osteoarthritis Interventions from Cochrane Systematic Reviews for Translation into "Evidence4Equity" Summaries

Elizabeth Houlding, Jennifer Petkovic, Jordi Pardo Pardo, Peter Tugwell University of Ottawa, Bruyère Institute, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Bruyère Research Institute

31 Step-by-step Adaptations in the Locomotor Pattern with Changes in Treadmill Incline

Taryn Klarner Lakehead University

32 An Investigation of Various Stretching Techniques on Hamstring Flexibility in Healthcare Students

Alysha Duivesteyn, Paolo Sanzo Lakehead University

33 The Biomechanical Effects of Rotator Cuff Taping on Throwing Velocity in Baseball Players

Kara-Lyn Harrison, Paolo Sanzo -- Lakehead University

34 Risky-Play to Enhance Health?: Exploring the Perspectives of Parents with Preschoolers

Kayla Waddington, Erin Pearson Lakehead University

35 Immigrant Parents' Knowledge and Perceptions of Strategies to Prevent Unintentional Injury to Children

Manal Alzghoul, Sabyah Azhar Lakehead University

36 Identifying Physiological Response to Emergency Response Calls Experienced During Sleep on One 24-hour Shift Among Thunder Bay Fire Rescue Firefighters

Sara Sayed, Brittany Kafka, Jessica Connolly, Joshua Hepburn, William Jeaurond, Regan Bolduc, Kathryn Sinden Lakehead University, McMaster University, Thunder Bay Fire Rescue

37 Occupational Therapy Vision Screening for Concussion: A Pilot Study

Stephanie Schurr St. Joseph's Care Group

38 The Use of Innovative Cycling Helmet Technology to Reduce the Risk of Head Impact Injuries

Carlos Zerpa, Meilan Liu, Shashankdhwaj Parihar Lakehead University

39 Sociotechnical Approach for Designing Healthcare Systems

Sabah Mohammed, Jinan Fiaidhi Lakehead University

40 An Evaluation of "Living Well with Dementia: Creating Dialogues of Hope" Conference

Carlina Marchese, Elaine Wiersma, Nisha Sutherland, Emilie Gaudet, Katelyn Wheeldon Lakehead University

*Presenter in Purple

Speaker #1

Adapting, Implementing and Evaluating a Patient Oriented

Discharge Summary (PODS) to Support Rehabilitation

Transitions in Care

Denise Taylor

Regional Rehabilitative Care Program, St. Joseph's Care Group

Mary Adams

Physical Rehab, St. Joseph's Care Group

Mandy Byerley-Vita

Physical Rehab, St. Joseph's Care Group

Jack Christy

Client and Family Partner, St. Joseph's Care Group

Deanne Lee

Physical Rehabilitation, St. Joseph's Care Group

Kate Melchiorre

Geriatric Assessment and Rehabilitative Care, St. Joseph's Care Group

Heather Munro

Geriatric Assessment and Rehabilitative Care, St. Joseph's Care Group

Gail O’Quinn

Geriatric Assessment and Rehabilitative Care, St. Joseph's Care Group

Kim Tanner

Geriatric Assessment and Rehabilitative Care, St. Joseph's Care Group

Background/Objectives: Despite best efforts, care transitions are often a time of stress and confusion for clients and families. PODS is a provincial best practice supporting the new Health Quality Ontario Standard: Transitions from Hospital to Home. The objective of PODS is to provide clients with easy-to-understand discharge instructions about signs and symptoms to watch for, medications, appointments, recommendations, and resources. PODS can help provide clients with the skills, supports, knowledge and confidence they need to safely manage their care at home.

Methods: Using Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles; a cross-discipline, regional working group across the four care streams (Neurology, Orthopaedics, Medically Complex and Geriatrics), codesigned PODS with client and family partners for the rehab context. PODS was piloted for 3 months on the geriatric unit, evaluated and adapted, then implemented on the orthopaedic and neurology units.

Results: PODS was completed for 147/153 clients (96%, target 80%), was 88% complete (target 100%) and provided 1.05d prior to discharge (target 2d). Medication understanding improved by 8%, client and family involvement by staff more than doubled (25-69%) and visits to the Emergency Department reduced by two-thirds (11.6% to 3.8%). Clients and families indicated they were pleased with the discharge planning; however, some clients noted lack of understanding in changes in their medications during the hospitalization and difficulty keeping up with the communication. Staff recognized the cost of time to complete and review the PODS but understood the value to the client, family and healthcare system.

Conclusion: PODS is effective in better preparing clients and families, in collaboration with their care team, for community living.

Speaker #2

Demographic Profile of People Accessing Personal Identification Services in Northwestern Ontario, 2018-2019: A Social Determinants of Health Exploration

Elyse Cottrell-Martin

Sociology, Lakehead University

Chris Sanders

Sociology, Lakehead University

Kristin Burnett

Indigenous Learning, Lakehead University

Kelly Skinner

School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo

Background/Objectives: Lack of birth registration, birth certificates, and other personal identification (PID) is often regarded as a problem of low-income nations, but many people living in northern Ontario also lack PID. Without PID, people are unable to access vital services associated with the social determinants of health. This community-based research project explores the challenges faced by people in northern Ontario that are trying to obtain PID. In particular, we focus on the impact of missing PID and unregistered births on the lives and health of Indigenous people in the provincial north.

Methods: This is a mixed-methods study. Quantitative data come from client intake forms (232 forms representing 291 people). Qualitative data come from 3 focus groups (17 participants), and 15 individual interviews with community members and service providers. These data come from an ongoing evaluation project; we present findings from 2018-19. This study adheres to OCAP.

Results: Over three quarters of clients seeking PID identify as Indigenous. Over one-half of applicants are women seeking ID for themselves or children in their care. One-third of applications are for children who need PID to attend school or obtain vital services. Applicants are likely to live in precarious housing and rely on social assistance as a primary income source. Cost and bureaucratic process are the most often cited barriers to obtaining PID.

Conclusion: In northern Ontario, missing PID exacerbates the effects of poverty and systemic racism on the health of Indigenous people. Several structural and institutional remedies that would help ameliorate this problem of missing ID are discussed.

Speaker #3

Housing Insecurity and Criminal Justice System Involvement for Women in Thunder Bay: Assessing Relationships and Needs

Stephanie Campbell

Psychology, Lakehead University

Rebecca Schiff

Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Helle Møller

Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Deborah Scharf

Psychology, Lakehead University

Mary Kozorys

Elizabeth Fry Society

Background/Objectives: Homelessness and housing insecurity can be both predictors and outcomes of criminal justice system involvement. This study assessed the perceived relationship between these two variables for women in Thunder Bay with the aim of identifying gaps and needs in our community.

Methods: A mixed method design was utilized involving quantitative (i.e. surveys) and qualitative (i.e. interviews and focus groups) approaches to data collection. Researchers collected information from women who were involved in the criminal justice system (at the Thunder Bay Correctional Centre and in the community) and professionals in the legal and social services sector. Additional data collection involved an environmental scan and gap analysis and bail court monitoring.

Results: Barriers for securing housing faced by women involved with the criminal justice system were identified and included discrimination, financial barriers and availability. Homelessness and housing insecurity were associated with recidivism, substance use relapse and safety risks. Inability to secure housing can prevent women from securing bail or being released from correctional facilities. Several gender and culture specific needs were identified and recommendations were provided.

Conclusion: There is a need for transitional housing in Thunder Bay that focuses on the unique needs of women, particularly Indigenous women. A facility that caters to all women could assist in bail and discharge planning while protecting women from the negative effects of homelessness such as increased risk of recidivism, relapse and physical harm. The recommendations in this report reflect the perceived needs of women involved in the criminal justice system and the professionals who serve them.

Speaker #4

Women's Experiences of Unfounded Sexual Assault

Jodie Murphy-Oikonen

School of Social Work, Lakehead University

Karen McQueen

School of Nursing, Lakehead University

Ainsley Miller

School of Nursing, Lakehead University

Alexa Hiebert

School of Social Work, Lakehead University

Lori Chambers

Women's Studies, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Sexual assault is defined as any type of forced or coerced sexual contact or behavior that happens without consent. Women seeking justice and personal safety may report their assaults to police. Police officers are often deemed "gatekeepers" to justice, however one in five reported sexual assaults are deemed false or baseless and therefore coded as "unfounded." Evidence suggests that sexual assault cases viewed as legitimate by police rest on perceptions of the seriousness of the crime as well as credibility of the victim. The purpose of this research was to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of women who have had their sexual assault deemed unfounded by police.

Methods: Semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with 24 sexual assault survivors in Northwestern Ontario. Thematic analysis was completed using Collaizzi's analytic method.

Results: Five main themes were identified including: 1) Vulnerability across the lifespan, 2) Drug and alcohol use during the assault, 3) Perceived judgement by police authorities, 4) Police process and communication, and 5) Lack of trust in Police. These themes highlight the vulnerability and risk factors among this population and the perceived insensitivity of the police during a traumatic event.

Conclusion: This research represents a first step towards filling knowledge gaps regarding women's perception of their experience when their reports are disbelieved by the institutions designed to protect them. The findings may be used to inform discussions among service providers to develop strategies to provide enhanced support to survivors in a way that better meets their needs.

Speaker #5

Thunder Bay's Joint Mobile Crisis Response Team: Evaluation of Process, Outcomes and Costs

Joshua Hawkins

Psychology, Lakehead University

Deborah Scharf

Psychology, Lakehead University

Anna Koné Péfoyo

Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Jennifer Hyslop

Canadian Mental Health Association Thunder Bay

Mariah Maddock

Canadian Mental Health Association Thunder Bay

Ryan Gibson

Thunder Bay Police Services

Mandy McMahan

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

Evelyne LeBlanc

Canadian Mental Health Association Thunder Bay

Lisa Beck

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

Derek West

Thunder Bay Police Service

Background/Objectives: Thunder Bay's Joint-Mobile Crisis Response Team (JMCRT) is an innovative partnership between Canadian Mental Health Association-Thunder Bay (CMHATB), Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS), and Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) where crisis workers partner with police to respond to mental health-related calls. The intent is to direct people in crisis to appropriate community services and to avoid unnecessary Emergency Department (ED) visits and police apprehensions ("Right Care, Right Place, Right Time").

Methods: We use administrative data to describe the processes, preliminary outcomes, and costs associated with the first ten months of the JMCRT.

Results: Administrative data are from one year before (June 2017-May 2018) and the first ten months (June 2018-March 2019) of the program. Proposed delivery targets were 300 individuals served. During the program period, the TBPS received 1,639 Mental Health Act related calls, for which JMCRT was used 942 (57.5%) times, and police were diverted from the ED 414 (25.3%) where JMCRT was used. JMCRT was not requested for 317 calls (19.3%) because they were made outside of JMCR working hours (2pm-2am). When JMCRT was used, police spent 28 fewer minutes at ED than when it was not (t(842)=1.96; p=0.05). Patient acuity at ED was not significantly different from the baseline and project periods (t(10996)=-1.73, p=0.08). Analyses of program costs and savings are forthcoming.

Conclusion: During its first 10 months, JMCRT exceeded service delivery targets and reduced burden on ED and police. This model shows potential for improving the quality of care for people with mental health needs.

Speaker #6

Effectiveness of a Brief Intervention Program (First Connection)

Implemented at a Children's Outpatient Mental Health Service

Alexandra Popowich

Psychology, Lakehead University

Amy Killen

Clinical Development, Evaluation & Research, Children's Centre Thunder Bay

Fred Schmidt

Clinical Development, Evaluation & Research, Children's Centre Thunder Bay

Background/Objectives: This oral presentation will highlight key findings from an evaluation of a brief intervention program (First Connection) implemented at a children's outpatient mental health service. The evaluation aimed to understand the effectiveness of the program through an investigation of presenting problems and satisfaction, and assessed the trajectory of these outcomes approximately one-month following client's engagement with the program.

Methods: Data will be presented for 237 clients and their families through November 2018 - April 2019. Clients completed surveys before and after the session, and voluntarily agreed to be contacted for a one-month follow-up phone call. Non-materialized clients were contacted and invited to complete a brief survey.

Results: Following the session, clients displayed significant change associated with presenting problem(s), including reduced distress, increased ability to cope, understanding, hopefulness, and confidence. Results of the one-month follow up data (N = 113) indicated some regression, however the majority of treatment effects were maintained, and clients were satisfied with the program overall (93%). In terms of waitlist management, 19% of clients were closed from service after their engagement with the program. Outcome data for non-materialized clients, as well as qualitative data from client's open-ended survey responses will also be presented.

Conclusion: This research supports the effectiveness of a brief intervention program within a children's outpatient mental health service. Implications of this evaluation for the broader mental health system will be discussed.

Speaker #7

Emergency Medical Services Response Times to Motor Vehicle Crashes Increased over the Period 1987 to 2018

Patrick Gravelle

Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

Sacha Dubois

Centre for Applied Health Research, St. Joseph's Care Group

David Savage

Northern Ontario School of Medicine

Michel Bédard

Centre for Applied Health Research, St. Joseph's Care Group

Background/Objectives: Changes in Emergency Medical Services (EMS) notification, arrival, and hospital arrival times may impact motor vehicle fatalities. Therefore, we examined EMS response times over the past three decades, overall and by time of day, weather conditions, total vehicles involved and geographic location.

Methods: Using the Fatal Accident Reporting System (1987 to 2018; n=272,128 complete cases) we computed annual median response times for: EMS notification; crash scene arrival; hospital arrival; total (i.e., crash to hospital). We examined the proportion of individuals with total response times less than 60 minutes, i.e., the golden hour, and hospital arrival times less than 30 minutes, i.e., the beneficial time-frame.

Results: Between 1999-2015 total median response times were highest ranging between 46-47 minutes; post 2015, decreased response times between 41-43 minutes were observed. In parallel, the proportion of crashes responded to within the golden hour decreased from 77.0% in 1987 to 69.2% in 2014; returning to 75.1% by 2018. The proportion of crashes with median hospital arrival times within the beneficial time-frame decreased from 60% in 1987 to 48% in 2014 with the proportion then increasing to 53% by 2018. Increased response times were observed for poor-weather, single vehicle crashes, early morning times, and most pronounced for rural locations.

Conclusion: From 1987-2018, notification time has decreased, but the arrival at both crash scene and hospital has steadily increased, resulting in overall increased total EMS response time. Given the potential importance of prehospital time towards survival, future research should focus on approaches to reduce the various response time components.

Speaker #8

A Narrative Approach to Understanding the Experience of Becoming and Being a Nurse: Understanding Professional Identity Formation Among New Nurses

Kathryn Halverson

School of Nursing, Lakehead University

Deborah Tregunno

School of Nursing, Queen's University

Background/Objectives: Research into how nurses form their professional identity is crucial to the development of the nursing profession as well as to understanding the factors that contribute to transition to practice and retention of new nurses. The purpose of this research was to explore the stories nurses tell to describe experiences of professional identity formation and transition to practice.

Methods: Narrative methodology was used to understand transition to practice for newly graduated nurses and their experience of professional identity formation. This dissertation begins with an autobiographical reflection of my own journey of becoming and being a nurse. The research study includes the stories of five nurses who shared their unique experiences of becoming and being nurses. Participants were interviewed twice, and data was analysed using a three-dimensional narrative inquiry space of time, sociality, and place.

Results: Each story was organized by plotlines of beginning, becoming, and being nurses. Resonating narrative threads emerged and are presented as understandings across the five narrative accounts. In addition to the interpretations of each individual's story of beginning, becoming, and being a nurse, threads that resonated across the stories include entering into the world of nursing, the journey to become a nurse, learning alongside others, and embodying nursing.

Conclusion: The findings of this inquiry offer a new context for understanding professional identity formation and transition to practice in a way that preserves, values, and respects the voices and stories of the nurses themselves, while offering insight for nursing education, practice, and research.

Poster #1

Exploring how Personal Support Workers, Registered Practical Nurses, and Registered Nurses Enact Collaboration in Long-Term Care

Brett Caccamo

School of Nursing / Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Lakehead University

David Thompson

School of Nursing, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Although personal support workers, registered practical nurses, and registered nurses provide the majority of care in long-term care facilities, little is known about how these professions collaborate. Because effective collaboration contributes to positive patient outcomes and healthy work environments, a better understanding of collaboration is needed to inform initiatives aimed at strengthening long-term care.

Methods: We conducted a qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured individual interviews with personal support workers, registered practical nurses, and registered nurses from several long-term care facilities. We asked a series of questions about their experiences with collaboration. We then used deductive content analysis guided by the Canadian Inter-professional Health Collaborative Framework to analyze the data.

Results: Preliminary findings relate to both individuals and organizations factors

Pertaining to the individual, a desire to provide compassionate patient-centred care enables collaboration across all three professions. Conversely, a lack of understanding and appreciation of other professions' roles, both visible and hidden, can impede collaboration. On an organizational level, there are strong supports for collaboration but the work structures within long-term care environments can make collaboration challenging.

Conclusion: Initiatives aimed at strengthening long-term care should build on existing organizational supports and workers' strong desire to provide patientcentred care.

Poster #2

Workplace Ostracism and Mental Health: The Role of Rumination

Kathy Sanderson Faculty of Business Administration, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Workplace ostracism and other covert forms of workplace aggression are associated with negative emotional reactions. Within one-episode occurrences, targets report lower mood and increased stress. This study examines the mental health outcomes of full-time employees who experience chronic workplace ostracism, and how rumination contributes to the severity of consequences.

Methods: This qualitative study engaged 12 women who reported persistent workplace ostracism, ranging in duration from 1 to 19 years. In-depth semistructured interviews we conducted to collect the lived experiences, including physical, mental, social and career outcomes. Utilizing thematic narrative analysis, the experiences were grouped in order to develop a map of mental health related outcomes.

Results: All of the participants described symptoms of anxiety and depression, yet only half sought medical intervention. Further, the majority exhibited, or had been diagnosed with trauma-related symptoms. The overall experience of exclusion, and the resulting health symptoms were exacerbated by rumination. The passive practice of trying to interrupt the workplace abuse by altering one's own behaviour, and the continual self-examination and self-blame resulted in debilitating levels of rumination which infiltrated all aspects of the individual's life.

Conclusion: Workplace interventions for stopping the ostracism were ineffective in all cases but one, and for those who left the workplace, the symptoms continued past termination. The intervention proposed in this paper is based on Response Styles Theory, and is designed to reduce the severity of mental health outcome.

Poster #3

Characteristics and Needs of Persons Admitted to an Inpatient Psychiatric Hospital with Worker's Safety and Insurance Board

Coverage

Grace Herring

Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Lynn Martin

Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Vicki Kristman

Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Before January 1st 2018, the Worker's Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) of Ontario did not cover mental health injuries at work, with the exception of traumatic mental stress. However, the WSIB was listed as responsible for payment of the inpatient psychiatric hospital stays for over one thousand individuals since 2005. This study describes the characteristics and needs of these individuals.

Methods: Analyses are based on secondary analysis of anonymized data in the Ontario Mental Health Reporting System collected between 2005 and 2017 using the RAI Mental Health instrument. Descriptive statistics inform on demographics (age, sex, marital status, living arrangements), admission (reason for admission, inpatient status), clinical characteristics (diagnoses, physical and mental health symptoms, behaviour), and services (focus of interventions).

Results: The WSIB was responsible for payment of 1,378 unique individuals. The majority were male (64.67%) and more than half (50.13%) were aged 40-54 years. The most frequent reason for admission was specific psychiatric symptoms (70.48%), followed by threat to self (43.79%), and addiction or dependency problems (38.77%). There was a steady increase of individuals between the years 2006 and 2016, with the exception of 2010.

Conclusion: This analysis provides a description of individuals who had their inpatient psychiatric stay paid for by WSIB (at least partially) over the last twelve years. Future studies should examine impacts of the policy introduced in January 2018 to determine whether changes are observed in the characteristics and needs of individuals admitted to inpatient psychiatry for (or related to) workrelated mental health injuries.

Poster #4

Safety in the Workplace: Responses from Nokiiwin Tribal Council Community Members

Robyn O'Loughlin

EPID@Work Research Institute, Lakehead University

Audrey Gilbeau

Nokiiwin Tribal Council

Vicki Kristman

EPID@Work Research Institute, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Many Indigenous communities are isolated from employment opportunities due to their remote location. Studies have found that some Indigenous people who leave their communities for work are not satisfied due to the lack of safety in the workplace (Ruwhiu & Carter, 2016; Curtis et al., 2012). Very little research has been conducted to ask Indigenous workers their perspectives. The objectives of this study were to understand the meaning of "safe work" and identify interventions to improve safe work from the perspective of Indigenous workers.

Methods: We conducted six focus groups in the Nokiiwin Tribal Council communities. Discussions were focused around the following questions:

1) what does work mean to you?; 2) what does 'safe' or 'being safe' mean to you at work?; and 3) how does workplace safety or lack thereof influence you physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually?

Results: Thirty-four community members participated in the study. The following themes emerged from the data: recognize life skills, family work values matter, the nature of work has changed, empower youth, workplaces should support employees, ensure job security, as well as recognize and incorporate Indigenous culture at work.

Conclusion: The key messages from the focus group data acknowledge that Indigenous people want: 1) stable work; 2) their culture and traditions to be respected in the workplace; and 3) to be physically and mentally safe while at work. Moving forward, workplace policies in the Nokiiwin communities should acknowledge the messages community members bring forward: stable, culturally safe employment is important.

Poster #5

Understanding Labour Force Participation, Work Productivity and Disability in the Indigenous Context

Vicki Kristman

EPID@Work Research Institute & Dept. of Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Audrey Gilbeau

Nokiiwin Tribal Council

Grace Herring

EPID@Work Research Institute & Dept of Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Workplace factors (WF) are important determinants of labour force participation, work productivity, and work disability. Indigenous workers may face unique situations given the proximity of the workplace to the community. Yet, we understand little about WF associated with these important outcomes in the Indigenous context: labour force participation, work productivity and disability. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the association between WF and these outcomes in Indigenous communities.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of community members from the Nokiiwin Tribal Council membership. Participants completed a web-based survey by following a URL link distributed to the communities or by face-to-face data collection with a researcher. Univariate and bivariate analyses were conducted to determine distributions of outcomes and WF and the bivariate associations between these.

Results: A total of 163 community members completed the survey. Approximately 70% were currently employed. The majority worked for a First Nation employer with about 69% working in a band office. Social engagement and presenteeism scale scores indicated some difficulty for workers in these areas. WF associated with worse outcomes included high interpersonal conflict at work, high family-work conflict, low supervisor and co-worker support, and low job control.

Conclusion: The identified WF are common WF previously identified in many working populations. The next steps for this research are to identify existing interventions addressing these factors, through a scoping review, and present the findings to community leaders. Relevant interventions may be modified and tested within the communities of the Nokiiwin Tribal Council.

Poster #6

A Pilot Approach to the Extraction and Prioritization of Recommendations for Treating Mental Health Problems, Mental Illness, and Suicide Among Indigenous Populations

Brooke Raycraft

Northern Ontario School of Medicine

Maggie Wilberforce

McMaster University

Jack Haggarty

St. Joseph's Health Centre

Background/Objectives: Canada's Indigenous population, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people, experience a disproportionate burden of mental illness compared to the rest of the population. This summer research project involved the review and analysis of grey literature containing recommendations for the effective treatment of Indigenous peoples suffering with mental health problems. The goal of this work was to compile key recommendations from a literature review and key reports on the treatment of Indigenous patients with mental health disorders in order to assist clinicians, communities and policy makers in implementing effective, culturally appropriate strategies for the treatment and prevention of mental health issues in the Indigenous population.

Methods: The approach utilized in this project involved the review and analysis of grey literature outlining recommendations for the treatment of mental illness in the Indigenous population.

Results: Thematic analysis of all recommendations resulted in the identification of 21 common themes. A survey tool was designed and piloted on 3 residents of Northwestern Ontario to identify if agreeability could be achieved in ranking of priorities.

Conclusion: Future research could involve using this survey tool to survey leaders in the field of Indigenous mental health research, psychiatrists, Indigenous leaders, elders, and those affected.

Poster #7

Examining Mental Health Outcomes from Adverse Childhood

Experiences (ACEs) within Indigenous Populations: A Systematic Review

Kara Boles

Psychology, Lakehead University

Abbey Radford

Psychology, Lakehead University

Katie Zugic

Dilico Anishinabek Family Care

Elaine Toombs

Psychology, Lakehead University

Jessie Lund

Psychology, Lakehead University

Christopher Mushquash

Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Mental Health and Addiction

Background/Objectives: Adversities in early childhood have been identified as problematic for future detriments in areas of mental health. Mental health difficulties seem to be plaguing Indigenous youth and it is plausible that ACEs are an explanatory variable for these increased negative mental health outcomes. However, much of the research that exists relating ACEs to mental health outcomes resides in mainstream samples. This present study reviews the existing ACE literature seen in Indigenous populations. Specifically, the relationship between ACEs and mental health outcomes seen in Indigenous populations were retrieved and organized.

Methods: Fifteen peer-reviewed and 25 grey-literature databases were searched, out of which 22 articles were retrieved. Studies were included if they described research looking at formally classified ACE outcomes, within Indigenous populations, written in English language, peer-reviewed, and which were published from 2000 onward.

Results: The analysis demonstrated that ACEs were reported to be higher in the Indigenous sample populations when compared to non-Indigenous counterparts. When examining mental health outcomes related to ACEs in Indigenous samples, higher ACE scores were shown to be associated with increased risk of suicide and psychological distress. Protective factors were also identified in the literature that may reduce the impact of ACEs on psychological resilience.

Conclusion: Future research should further explore the relationship between ACEs and protective factors, prevalence within specific sub-populations, and consistent reporting of outcomes across studies. Research has the potential to clarify existing dose-response relationships between early traumatic experiences and current mental health disparities experienced within some Indigenous communities.

Poster #8

Rates of Adverse Childhood Experiences in First Nations Adults

Seeking Substance Use Treatment in Northwestern Ontario

Jessie Lund

Psychology, Lakehead University

Elaine Toombs

Psychology, Lakehead University

Meagan Drebit

Dilico Anishinabek Family Care

Tina Bobinski

Dilico Anishinabek Family Care

John Dixon

Dilico Anishinabek Family Care

Christopher Mushquash

Psychology, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Research pursuits over the last two decades have consistently noted a relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and subsequent substance use problems seen in adulthood. Coinciding with these findings, treatment providers often note anecdotally that First Nations adults seeking treatment for substance use problems in Northwestern Ontario also report high rates of ACEs, likely a result of the deleterious effects of colonization experienced across generations of Indigenous peoples. To date, there has been little research that has quantified the rates of ACEs reported in this population.

Methods: We analyzed data from 55 First Nations adults attending a residential treatment program for substance use problems in Northwestern Ontario. Participants completed self-report questionnaires detailing the types of ACEs they experienced.

Results: Among participants, the mean number of ACEs was 5.24 (SD = 2.93). The percentage of participants who experienced each type of ACEs are as follows: parental substance use (86%); parental divorce/separation (75%); parental mental illness (71%); physical abuse (48%); sexual abuse (45%); maternal domestic abuse (40%); emotional neglect (39%); physical neglect (39%); parental incarceration (30%); and emotional abuse (28%).

Conclusion: First Nations adults seeking treatment for substance use problems report high rates of adverse childhood experiences. These findings highlight the need for continued preventative efforts as well as evidence-based treatment programs that address the longstanding effects of intergenerational trauma and its relationship to both early adverse experiences and substance use problems later in life.

Poster #9

Unfounded Sexual Assault- The Experiences of First Nations Women

Lori Chambers

Women's Studies, Lakehead University

Jodie Murphy-Oikonen

Social Work, Lakehead University

Alexa Hiebert

Social Work, Lakehead University

Karen McQueen

Nursing, Lakehead University

Ainsley Miller

Nursing, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Sexual assault is a traumatic event that affects 1 in 3 Canadian women. Survivors of sexual assault must report their victimization to the police to attain justice, yet police response to victimization is often influenced by the acceptance of rape myths. Indigenous women experience a disproportionate amount of sexual violence and often face further barriers when seeking justice compared to the general population. The purpose of this research was to gain a deeper understanding of the unique experiences of Indigenous women who have had their sexual assault disbelieved by the police.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 Indigenous survivors of sexual assault. Thematic analysis was completed using Collaizzi's analytic method.

Results: Preliminary findings from Indigenous survivors of sexual assault outlined 5 main findings including: 1) Victimization across the lifespan, 2) Dismissed by the police 3) Police Insensitivity and Re-victimization 4) Negative outcomes on daily life and, 5) Increased Vulnerability

Conclusion: This research provides insight into the unique experiences of Indigenous survivors of sexual assault and their interactions with police during a traumatic time. The resilience of Indigenous women and their shared voice may influence service providers, including police authorities, to recognize their vulnerability and strength and use their voices to influence increased sensitivity and support for survivors.

Poster #10

Sexual Assault: Women's Voices on The Impact of Not Being Believed by Police

Ainsley Miller

School of Nursing, Lakehead University

Jodie Murphy-Oikonen

School of Social Work, Lakehead University

Karen McQueen

School of Nursing, Lakehead University

Alexa Hiebert

School of Social Work, Lakehead University

Lori Chambers

Women's Studies, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Statistics on sexual assault are staggering, with estimates that one in three Canadian women will experience sexual assault in their lifetime. This number is believed to be underestimated as many women do not report their victimization. Of those who do, evidence suggests that one in five women are not believed by the police. Women's experiences of not being believed is lacking in the literature. Thus, the purpose of this qualitative study was to gain a deeper understanding of the experience of not being believed and the impact on mental health and social outcomes.

Methods: Semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with 24 women in Northwestern Ontario who self-identified that their reported sexual assault was not believed by the Police. Data was analyzed thematically using Collaizzi's method of analysis.

Results: In addition to the trauma of being sexually assaulted, several themes emerged regarding not being believed including 1) mistrust of police, 2) low selfesteem and 3) increased use of drugs and alcohol. The experience of not being believed lead women to question their self-worth and may have increased their vulnerability to future assaults as women did not report subsequent violence to the Police.

Conclusion: The negative health and social outcomes associated with being sexually assaulted may be magnified among women who perceived that they are not believed by the police. Supportive strategies are required for survivors who report sexual assault to prevent adverse impacts of their disclosure.

Poster #11

Barriers to Emergency Health Care in Thunder Bay for People with Mental Health Conditions

Elyse Cottrell-Martin

Social Justice Studies, Lakehead University

Kristin Burnett

Indigenous Learning, Lakehead University

Geoffrey Hudson

Human Sciences, Northern Ontario School of Medicine

Background/Objectives: Over 3.8 million people have functional limitations due to a disability (Statistics Canada, 2013). Canada's history of mistreatment of people with mental health conditions (Dyck, 2013; Reaume, 1997) combined with a lack of treatment for people with chronic illnesses in the North has resulted in extensive barriers to emergency health care in Thunder Bay for people with mental health conditions.

Methods: A mixed methods research design rooted in an intersectional framework (Nash, 2008) and an inter-categorical complexity approach (McCall, 2005) was used to gather quantitative (N=104) research using a survey, and qualitative (N=10) data came from interviews conducted with ten survey participants.

Results: Mental Health and Addiction related barriers were prevalent in this research. 73.9% of participants did not feel like their mental health was taken seriously and only 60% were provided information on mental health resources. People with mental health conditions were less likely to be satisfied with care (M = 2.13, SD = .83) than those who had both physical and mental health conditions (M = 3.60, SD = 0.68), F (2, 96) = 3.57, p = .032. Barriers related to mental health and addiction were mentioned seventeen times in the survey and thirty-three times in interviews.

Conclusion: This research helped to identify significant gaps that currently exist in the emergency health care system in Thunder Bay, especially with regards to mental health care. Understanding the barriers that people with chronic illness face when accessing health care is essential to improving services.

Poster #12

Integration of an Evidence-based Tobacco Cessation Program into a Substance Use Disorder Program for Northern, Rural, and Remote Communities

Patricia M. Smith

Human Sciences, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Lakehead University

Lisa Seamark

Mental Health and Addictions Program, Meno Ya Win Health Centre

Katie Beck

Sioux Lookout Diabetes Program, Meno Ya Win Health Centre

Background/Objectives: Integrating tobacco cessation interventions into substance use disorder (SUD) programs are recommended, yet few are implemented into practice. This translational research implementation study was designed to integrate an evidence-based tobacco cessation intervention into a 2-week hospital outpatient SUD program that served a rural municipality and 33 remote Indigenous communities. Objectives included determining tobacco use prevalence, intervention uptake, and staffing resources required for intervention delivery.

Methods: A series of one-hour smoking and health/well-being interactive education and behaviour-change groups were developed for the SUD program to create a central access point to offer an evidence-based, intensive tobacco cessation intervention that included an initial counselling/planning session and nine post-SUD treatment follow-ups (weekly month 1; biweekly month 2; and 3, 6, 12-months). Group sign-in data included age, gender, community, tobaccouse, and interest in receiving tobacco cessation help.

Results: Thirty-two groups (April 2018 to February 2019) were attended by 105 people from 22 communities-56% were female, mean age=30.9 (±7.3; 93% <45 yr.), 86% smoked, and 38% enrolled in the intensive tobacco cessation intervention. The age-standardised tobacco-use ratio was two times higher than would be expected in the general rural population in the region. Average staff time to provide the intervention was 1.5-2.5 hr/week.

Conclusion: Results showed that a healthy living group integrated into SUD programming provided a forum for tobacco education, behaviour change skills development, and access to an intensive tobacco cessation intervention for which enrollment was high yet the intervention could be delivered with only a few staff hours a week.

Poster #13

Substance-involved In-patients in Medical and Rehabilitation Settings

Mandy Byerley-Vita

Physical Rehabilitation, St. Joseph's Care Group

Stacey Freemantle

Leadership Development, St. Joseph's Care Group

Kristine Quaid

Mental Health, St. Joseph's Care Group

Kristen Jones-Bonofilgio

School of Nursing, Lakehead University

Niki Kiepek

School of Occupational Therapy, Dalhousie University

Background/Objectives: NW ON rates of opioid related hospital admissions and emergency department visits are 4th highest provincially and 7th highest nationally. Increasingly, patients are admitted for infection (e.g., osteomyelitis, endocarditis) related to intravenous substance use. This results in complex situations such as: patient intoxication following leaves; missed medical care; self-administration of substances on premise; drug paraphernalia on premise; withdrawal symptoms; Code Yellow (missing patient and police contact); and discharge against medical advice.

Methods: A mixed methods study involved: 1) medical record review for all patients admitted for IV antibiotic treatment for infections related to IV drug use at a single hospital over a 2-year period; 2) interviews with health providers and decision-maker regarding care pathway decisions.

Results: 25 people were identified to be admitted for intravenous antibiotic treatment related to intravenous substance use (29 admissions total). The majority of inpatients were female patients under 40 years old, admitted to hospital for an average of 3 months, reside in Thunder Bay in their own home or the home of another, and receive long-term income assistance. Code yellow was enacted for 38% of admissions and 41% were discharged early. Preliminary findings of interviews indicate themes about patient autonomy, shared responsibility, greater understanding of substance abuse in an effort to foster positive outcomes and the need for the "right" services. Tensions arose related to i) caring and liability and ii) health care providers' responsibilities and client autonomy.

Conclusion: Given the high prevalence of substance use and addiction among patients admitted for general medical concerns, it is timely to consider strategies to effectively support inpatients with complex health needs, such as integrating substance use and addiction services into in-patient practice areas, supporting harm reduction practices in hospital, and establishing organizational protocols to foster patient engagement with health care services.

Poster #14

Acting on What Mothers Told Us: Evaluating the HOPE App to Support the Mental Health of Pregnant and Postpartum Women in Northwestern Ontario

Abigale Kent

Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Helle Møller

Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Jennifer Chisholm

Women's Studies, Lakehead University

Manal Alzghoul

Nursing, Lakehead University

Pauline Sameshima

Education, Lakehead University

Barbara Benwell

Social Justice, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Women living in Northwestern Ontario (NWO) face unique barriers in accessing maternal mental health services/supports compared to the rest of the province. Technological advances in eHealth interfaces may represent solutions for overcoming these obstacles. The HOPE app is an e-screening, e-referral, and e-therapy tool with a single, virtual point of access that has been designed to screen, diagnose, monitor, and treat mood and anxiety disorders in pregnant and postpartum women. This study sought the perspectives of maternal care and service providers on the suitability of the HOPE app for mothers living in NWO.

Methods: Fourteen semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with providers in Thunder Bay, Kenora, and Sioux Lookout. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and were analyze using an Interpretive Description approach.

Results: Preliminary analysis has produced 6 distinct themes: "current care barriers", "creating a comprehensive care network", "generating incentive", "incorporating cultural sensitivity", "internet and phone service barriers", and "HOPE for the future". When asked if they would feel comfortable referring women to the HOPE app, the response from service providers was overwhelmingly positive. The principal concerns for using the app in NWO were internet connectivity and cultural sensitivity.

Conclusion: Initial findings suggest the HOPE app will represent a beneficial addition to the maternal care services currently offered in NWO. However, modification to expand the content to serve Indigenous, new immigrant, and refugee mothers is needed in order to reach a more comprehensive audience. Following revision, further research should include direct input from women using this service.

Poster #15

Measuring Adolescent Exposure to Cannabis Marketing with Real-Time Assessment: A Pilot Study

Christopher Armiento

Neuroscience, Lakehead University

Deborah Scharf

Psychology, Lakehead University

Rupert Klein

Psychology, Lakehead University

Anna Koné

Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Joshua Hawkins

Psychology, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Policymakers, educators, and families need to know the nature and extent of Canadian adolescents' exposure to cannabis marketing, as it can impact their attitudes, beliefs, and decisions to use cannabis. The purpose of this study is to develop and demonstrate the utility of a real-world, real-time, Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) protocol for describing the frequency and characteristics of adolescent exposures to cannabis marketing in a post-legalization environment.

Methods: Adolescents and their parents took part in focus groups to inform the pilot protocol. Adolescent participants then used a cellphone application ('app') to photograph and describe instances of cannabis marketing exposures as they occurred in their natural environments over the course of nine consecutive days.

Results: Results of focus groups showed that parents and teens were largely comfortable with the study protocol and supportive of its purpose. Data to be presented include key modifications to the protocol made during the pilot study, as well as preliminary results describing the frequency and nature of cannabis advertising exposures (e.g., channels, locations, brands), plus the momentary impacts on adolescent expectations and intentions to use cannabis.

Conclusion: This research will inform the development of a larger study aimed to help policymakers and community stakeholders determine if Canada's existing cannabis marketing regulatory policies are effective, if current policy enforcement is warranted, and if additional policy types (e.g., marketing restrictions through previously unanticipated channels) are needed.

Poster #16

Marijuana Use in Undergraduate Students: The Short-term Relationship Between Motives and Frequency of Use

Jaidyn Charlton

Psychology, Lakehead University

Elizabeth Grassia

Psychology, Lakehead University

Nicole Marshall

Psychology, Lakehead University

Aislin Mushquash

Psychology, Lakehead University

Christopher Mushquash

Psychology, Lakehead University

Dwight Mazmanian

Psychology, Lakehead University

Daniel McGrath

Psychology, University of Calgary

Background/Objectives: Prior to legalization in October 2018, marijuana was the most commonly used illicit drug in Canada, with 60-73% of undergraduate students reporting use over their lifetime. Research consistently links marijuana use to negative outcomes, including physical and mental health problems and social, educational, and occupational impairments. Changes in substance use ensue rapidly in young adults, which makes understanding the link between motives and frequency important.

Methods: A sample of 410 participants was recruited to complete self-report measures of marijuana motives and frequency of marijuana use at Baseline and Follow-Up (two weeks later). Of the initial sample, 247 reported prior use of marijuana and were included in the analyses. Hierarchical regression analyses were performed to test the relationships between the Baseline marijuana motives and frequency of use at Follow-Up while controlling for Baseline frequency of use.

Results: Using marijuana to cope was the only motive significantly associated with greater frequency of future marijuana use after controlling for prior frequency of use (Adj. R2 = .29, p < .05). Contrary to hypotheses, greater endorsement of the enhancement and social cohesion motives did not relate significantly to more frequent marijuana use. As expected, expansion and conformity were not significantly associated with more frequent marijuana use at Follow-Up.

Conclusion: The findings help clarify the link between reasons for using marijuana and the frequency of use. The results also have useful implications for preventing and treating marijuana related difficulties, suggesting that coping motives may be a more appropriate area to target with prevention strategies.

Poster #17

Promoting Resilience in Youth Transitioning to University: User Experience with a Smartphone App

Angela MacIsaac

Psychology, Lakehead University

Aislin Mushquash

Psychology, Lakehead University

Shakira Mohammed

Psychology, Lakehead University

Christine Wekerle

Pediatrics, McMaster University

Savanah Smith

Pediatrics, McMaster University

Background/Objectives: Many youths experience increased stress and mental health difficulties during the transition to university. The current study aimed to promote resilience in these students with a smartphone app and assessed user experience. The JoyPopTM app contains evidence-based features for promoting resilience, including a mood rating, journaling, shape shifter game, art, breathing exercises, and connection with support networks.

Methods: Undergraduate students transitioning to university used the app for four weeks at least twice daily. Participants (n=30) completed qualitative interviews assessing overall experience using the app, features used most often and found most helpful, and what would make app usage more likely. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically. Results: Themes of overall experience using the app included using it to regulate and reflect on emotion, finding that using it became habit and routine, developing feature preferences, and noticing app limitations. All features except the art activity and connection with support networks were frequently cited as most helpful and most used. Reasons for choices often touched upon selfregulation, such as using the journal to track emotion, the shape shifter game as a distraction, the mood rating feature to label feelings, or the breathing activities to calm down. Resolving technical glitches, enhancing the mood rating feature, adding more activities, and situational factors were cited as things making app usage more likely.

Conclusion: The JoyPopTM app represents a novel way of making resilience activities a regular part of one's day. Most benefits surround emotion regulation, and youth demonstrate a willingness to engage with app technology.

Poster #18

Analysis of Strength Domains and Association with Individual and Social Well-being Among Adolescents

Tiffany Leung

Psychology, Lakehead University

Edward Rawana

Psychology, Lakehead University

Rupert Klein

Psychology, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: The association between personal strengths and wellbeing has been replicated across contexts and sample groups, showing that those who possess and utilize their strengths have higher reports of well-being. However, it remains unclear as to whether certain domains of strengths are more strongly associated with certain indices of well-being. Such information is necessary for increasing our conceptual understanding of how strengths are related to personal and social functioning.

Methods: 236 high school students from an urban northern community completed a series of standardized questionnaires examining strengths and individual and social well-being (i.e., perceived stress and relatedness adequacy, respectively). Both internally and externally-based strengths were examined. Bivariate correlations were used to identify strength domains that would be further analyzed through hierarchical regression modeling.

Results: The strength of self-knowledge was relevant for both individual and social well-being (β = -.54, p < .001; β = .20, p < .05; respectively), whereas strengths at home (β = .24, p < .01), strengths at school (β = -.18, p < .05), and strengths from having goals and dreams (β = .21, p < .05) were relevant for only social well-being.

Conclusion: By examining specific domains, a better understanding can be gained of the association between strengths and well-being. Such information is necessary for understanding the intricacies of how strengths affect individual and social experience, for promoting more detailed strategies within the positive psychology literature, for developing guidelines on how to adapt strength-based interventions, and for further understanding the strength profiles of normally-developing adolescents.

Poster #19

Which CameFirst? Exploring the Reciprocal Relations Between Impulsivity and Binge Eating

Kendra Ryan

Psychology, Lakehead University

Elizabeth Grassia

Psychology, Lakehead University

Aislin Mushquash

Psychology, Lakehead University

Laura McGeown

Psychology, Lakehead University

Christopher Mushquash

Psychology, Lakehead University

Daniel McGrath

Psychology, University of Calgary

Background/Objectives: Binge eating is exceedingly common in nonclinical samples of young adults, with epidemiological evidence that 49.1% and 30.0% of university-aged women and men, respectively, engage in episodic binge eating. Thus, there is impetus to identify dispositional factors contributing to the emergence and maintenance of binge eating. Impulsivity is well cited as an important vulnerability factor, as longitudinal studies have indicated impulsivity prospectively predicts future binge eating (i.e., a predisposing model). However, no studies to date have examined whether binge eating reciprocally influences future impulsivity (i.e., a complication model). In addition, no prior longitudinal studies have included men, despite evidence that a significant proportion engage in binge eating.

Methods: A short-term, 3-week, 3-wave longitudinal study was conducted. 241 undergraduate students (186 women; 53 men) participated. Information on impulsivity and binge eating was collected at three time points with standardized measurements. We tested a cross-lagged, reciprocal relations model.

Results: Consistent with our hypotheses, we found both impulsivity and binge eating exhibited strong stability over time with test-retest correlations for measures of impulsivity ranging from .79 to .90 and binge eating ranging from .70 to .79. Impulsivity also predicted future binge eating across all three waves of the study (p < .05). Contrary to expectations, binge eating did not predict future impulsivity.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that personality-targeted prevention and intervention approaches targeting impulsivity may demonstrate clinical utility in attenuating binge eating symptomatology. Enhancing individuals' awareness of their impulsive urges could be integrated with instruction on strategies outlining how to inhibit urges following triggers to binge.

Poster #20

Client Satisfaction of Chronic Pain Management Program

Carmela White

Psychology, St. Joseph's Care Group

Mary Donaghy

Psychology - Chronic Pain, St. Joseph's Care Group

Background/Objectives: Client satisfaction with health care services is important for program evaluation and improvement (Hearnshaw, 1996; Williams & Calnan, 1991). Further, client satisfaction may contribute to seeking necessary future care (Donabedian, 1992) and increased treatment compliance (Hirsh et al., 2005). Critically, the World Health Organization (WHO) has underscored the importance of a person-centered approach to increasing health and well-being (WHO, 2015). Providing clients the opportunity to express feedback about their care is in accordance with this approach, and may be particularly useful in a population that often requires services on an on-going or longer term basis, such as individual experiencing chronic pain. The objective of the current study was to synthesize client feedback survey data after their participation in a 6-week Interprofessional Chronic Pain Management Program. Methods: Qualitative data from 103 client feedback surveys was analyzed using a descriptive and exploratory design.

Results: Majority of clients reported satisfaction in a number of areas including supportive client-practitioner relations, availability of various professionals, and increased knowledge. Similarly, findings revealed consistent reports of perceived benefits such as new coping skills, improved fitness/movement, and better emotional health. Last, areas such as wishing the program was longer than six weeks, more/improved equipment, and the cost/availability of parking were consistently indicated as areas for improvement. Importantly, 99% of clients reported they would refer the program to their family/friends. Conclusion: Findings provide an additional source of confirmation of the effectiveness of the 6-week Interprofessional Chronic Pain Management Program and areas in which can be considered for future improvement.

Poster #21

Mood Disorders in Cancer Patients with Arthritis

Umme Kabir

Health Science, Lakehead University

Anna Péfoyo

Health Science, Lakehead University

Deborah Scharf

Psychology, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Mood disorders, particularly Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a concern in cancer patients as it impacts their care management and outcomes. Multimorbidity, especially arthritis or cancer, have been linked to increased risk of MDD. This study aims to explore the combined role of arthritis and multimorbidity on the incidence of MDD among cancer patients.

Methods: A retrospective population-based cohort study with linked health administrative data was conducted. Patients in Ontario diagnosed between 2003 and 2013 without pre-existing MDD were followed up until March 2018. The incidence of MDD was compared between cancer patients with and without arthritis. Survival analysis was performed to assess the adjusted impact of arthritis on the development of MDD, considering multimorbidity.

Results: The cohort included 449,305 participants, aged 63 years on average, and 51% had arthritis. The cumulative incidence of MDD was 11.8/1,000 patients, and respectively 13.4 and 10.1 per 1,000 in patients with and without arthritis. The incidence was higher among females, lower-income quintiles, rural residents, patients with lung cancer patients, and patients in stage III and IV; it increased with the level of multimorbidity. Patients with arthritis were 1.33 times more likely to develop MDD compared to those without arthritis, and the risk was higher when they have 4 or more additional co-occurring conditions.

Conclusion: The findings provide evidence for addressing arthritis and multimorbidity among cancer patients in order to improve their mental and general health outcomes.

Poster #22

The Impact of Major Depressive Disorder and Multimorbidity on Health Care Utilization Among Cancer Patients

Umme Kabir

Health Science, Lakehead University

Anna Péfoyo

Health Science, Lakehead University

Deborah Scharf

Psychology, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is common in cancer patients and impacts their health care utilization (HCU). Cancer patients often have multiple conditions exacerbating the effect of MDD on health services use. This study will evaluate the impact of MDD on HCU among cancer patients and how it may differ with additional comorbidities.

Methods: A retrospective population-based cohort study using health administrative data was conducted. The cohort included cancer patients diagnosed between March 2003, and April 2013 and followed up till March 2018, to measure hospital admission and ED visits. The clusters of the conditions showing the highest level of health service use were identified and compared between the patients with or without MDD.

Results: The cohort included 453,012 participants, and the prevalence of MDD was 1.99%. Compared to patients without MDD, those with MDD had on average higher hospitalizations (1.25±1.33 vs. 0.71±0.93) and ED visits (1.72±2.70 vs. 0.98±1.44) per person-year. Among the patients with MDD, multimorbidity did not significantly increase HCU, but among those without MDD, HCU increased with the number of comorbidities. Hospitalization and ED visits varied across clusters within each level of multimorbidity; clusters, including MDD, showed higher HCU.

Conclusion: The findings confirm that MDD is an important predictor of HCU. Addressing the health care needs of patients with MDD and identifying other cooccurring conditions will ensure patient-centered care and improve the outcomes in cancer patients.

Poster #23

Quality of Life and Care Experience among Complex Cancer Patients

Joshua Hawkins

Psychology, Lakehead University

Deborah Scharf

Psychology, Lakehead University

Anna Koné Péfoyo

Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Jewel Kozik

Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Ekjot Grewal

Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: To assess the impact of health system changes on care for patients with cancer and other chronic conditions ("complex" cancer; CC), researchers need quality of life (QoL) measures that are appropriate for CC patients. While many QoL assessments are available, no extant QoL measure systematically addresses the unique circumstances of people with CC. We aim to better define QoL for people with CC so that we can meaningfully assess the impact of healthcare approaches on CC patients' experiences in care.

Methods: We conducted seven patient focus groups in two Ontario locations: Thunder Bay and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Participants described what QoL means to them and its connection to their experiences navigating care systems. Participants were n=27 adults, age M=58.44 years, who were mostly female (70.63%) and who identified as "White" (84.62%). Most participants reported having two (70.37%) or three or more (29.93%) chronic conditions in addition to cancer.

Results: Thematic analysis shows that patient-identified QoL domains are consistent with extant measures, such as physical health and mobility, pain, social support, and general mental health. However, they also identified additional domains such as hope and purpose, autonomy and willpower, and the impact of care delivery issues such as care coordination and appointment scheduling.

Conclusion: This preliminary research indicates that existing QoL measures may not comprehensively capture CC patients' conceptualization of QoL. More intensive CC QoL measure development research is needed in order to meet patient needs.

Poster #24

Care Experience of Patients with Cancer and Multimorbidity

Jewel Kozik

Behavioural and Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Anna Koné

Behavioural and Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Joshua Hawkins

Psychology, Lakehead University

Deborah Scharf

Psychology, Lakehead University

Taslim Alani-Verjee

Clinical and Counselling Psychology, Silm Centre for Mental Health

Background/Objectives: Complex cancer care regimens are burdensome for patients. Without careful integration of care for cancer and other conditions, complex cancer patients (CCPs) are at risk of poor health and poor quality of life. The purpose of this study was to better understand CCPs' experiences and how multimorbidity impacts their care, from both patient and provider perspectives.

Methods: Patients in Thunder Bay (TB; n=16) and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA; n=11) took part in focus groups about their experiences with cancer care and other health care systems. Provider participants in TB (n=4) participated in semi-structured interviews about their experience in providing CCP care.

Results: Patients reported that cancer care was prioritized above non-cancer conditions. Also, communication, access to supplementary services, coordination and continuity of care, activities of daily living, and other chronic conditions were important factors affecting patient experiences. While patient experiences were similar in TB and the GTA, transportation to care was more burdensome in TB. Provider interviews added that patient and provider education could improve patient experiences.

Conclusion: CCP experiences may be improved with more attention to care for co-occurring conditions, and easily accessible education and information about what to expect in the care process and other available supports. Transportation services for Northern CCPs may also help improve CCP experiences in care. The results of this work can help inform the development of strategies to improve CCP care experiences and outcomes.

Poster #25

Clinical Experience of a Northern Ontario Multidisciplinary

Cardio-Oncology Clinic: An Observational Retrospective Study

Peter Smylie

Medical Student, Northern Ontario School of Medicine

H Svyst

Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute

N Laferriere

Hematology /Oncology, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

K Roberts

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

K Melenchuk

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

A Alaref

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

O Aseyev

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

Background/Objectives: Many modern cancer therapies have been shown to have potential cardiotoxic effects, with cardiac morbidity becoming an increasingly important consideration for cancer treatment. A cardiac oncology clinic was recently established at the TBRHSC, and this study aims to report this clinic's experience to contribute to the literature base for the emerging field of cardiac oncology.

Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from 124 patients referred to TBRHSC's specialized Cardiac Oncology Clinic (COC). Patient demographics, reasons for referral, and patient outcomes were examined along with data about cancer therapies and cardiac monitoring.

Results: 124 patients were referred to the COC between 26/1/2018 and 12/6/2019 (71 women, 57%; 53 men, 43%). Median patient age at cancer diagnosis was 62 years (range 23 - 83 years). The most common types of primary malignancy were hematologic (47%) and breast (29%). The most common reasons for referral were clinically suspected cardiotoxicity (69%) and history of acute coronary syndrome (32%). Treatment with cardiac medications was prescribed for 58 patients (47%), with 7 patients receiving an ACE inhibitor (6%), 24 patients receiving a beta blocker (19%) and 12 patients receiving both (10%). During or before the study period, 29 patients (24%) completed prescribed cancer therapy, with 74 patients (60%) having ongoing therapy and 21 patients (17%) being forced to cease therapy.

Conclusion: This study adds to the literature base reporting experiences of cardiac oncology clinics across the world. The continued analysis of data from cardiac oncology treatment will ultimately lead to increased quality and length of life for cancer patients.

Poster #26

WE-Can Do it Together and We Should: A Salutogenic Perspective on a Wellness and Exercise Program for Individuals with Cancer

Tracey Larocque

Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Kelly-Jo Gillis

Preventive Health Services, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

Ian Newhouse

Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Samantha Morris

Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Symptoms arising from cancer and its treatment effects can impair physical function and quality of life (QoL) that may continue months to years after treatment. Exercise can be a therapeutic aid, an effective non- pharmacological treatment, and prevention strategy for individuals going through cancer. Antonovsky's (1979, 1987) theory of Salutogenesis (understanding factors that create health), is operationalized through the sense of coherence (SOC) and the generalized resistance resources (GRRs) that facilitates effective coping. Both SOC and exercise have been found to have a positive influence on one's perception of health-related QoL. However, the relationship between exercise and SOC is lacking. The purpose of this study is to illustrate the effectiveness of a community- and group-based wellness and exercise program on improving physical function and QoL in individuals with cancer.

Methods: A ten-week, bi-weekly exercise program (2x/75 minutes)(N=110) was held at the Canada Games Complex. Pre and post assessments included 5 components of the Senior Fitness Test and Handgrip Test. Health and QoL questionnaires included the Patient Specific Functional Scale, Brief Fatigue Inventory, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue Scale, the Short Form-36 Health Survey, and the Orientation to Life Questionnaire (SOC) (N=61).

Results: All functional fitness (p< .001) and the health and QoL variables (p< .005) showed significant improvements following the 10-week exercise intervention.

Conclusion: Our research suggests that a 10-week program can not only improve physical function but if health promoting programs are designed to improve one's GRRs, SOC and subsequently QoL will also be improved.

Poster #27

Becoming One with Nature: A Nature Intervention for Individuals Living with Cancer Partaking in a Ten-Week Group

Exercise and Educational Program

Samantha Morris

School of Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Ian Newhouse

School of Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Tracey Larocque

School of Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Kelly Jo-Gillis

Thunder Bay Regional and Health Sciences

Leanne Smith

School of Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Positive outcomes associated with psychological and physiological well-being have resulted from nature exposure. However, limited data exists for nature-based interventions and their effect on individuals living with cancer. The purpose of this mixed-method study was to determine if incorporating the One Nature Challenge (ONC; ie. minimum 30 minutes for 30 days) into a ten-week group exercise program (WE-Can) for individuals living with cancer can offer psychological and physiological benefits additionally to ones previously observed.

Methods: Past data for WE-Can was utilized as a control group (n=147; 59+/11yrs). Psychological and physiological assessments for eleven participants (10 females; 62+/-12yrs) were evaluated prior to WE-Can. In addition, nature relatedness (NR; ie. relationship with nature) was measured at the beginning, middle, and end of WE-Can. Following five-weeks, the ONC began and participants tracked days of nature experienced (24+/-6 days). The ONC finished concurrently with WE-Can and post-evaluations followed immediately. Results: These are preliminary results to a larger study. No effect between group and time was found for both psychological [F(1,120)=1.566, p>0.05] and physiological [F(1,117)=0.531, p>0.05] outcomes. However, significant differences did exist between groups for both physiological (systolic pressure: p=0.044; aerobic: p=0.024) and psychological (sense of coherence: p=0.018) measures. Walking outside and gardening were common activities amongst the focus group. In addition, a shift in the mind while immersed in nature helped participants feel rejuvenated.

Conclusion: In conclusion, lack of statistical significance could be attributed to the small sample size or the high level of NR prior to the intervention. This can indicate that the benefits were already achieved prior to the study.

Poster #28

"I've already done that many?": Exploring the Use of Fitness Trackers as a Health Promotion Intervention for Employees in a Hospital Setting

Erin Pearson

School of Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Courtney Kennedy

School of Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Kelly-Jo Gillis

Preventive Health Services, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

Sara Hyett

Preventive Health Services, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

Shalyn Littlefield

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

Kathryn Sinden

School of Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Gordon Porter

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

Background/Objectives: Personal health challenges are highly reported among hospital employees. Burnout and lack of self-care are common, complicated by long and varied shifts, demanding work environments, and psychosocial stressors. Physical activity is known to alleviate an array of health concerns while enhancing components of physical and mental health. To date, a paucity of studies have examined physical activity interventions for employees in a health care setting. Wearable technology has been shown to elicit positive health-related outcomes and may be a feasible avenue to enhance wellness in this context. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of local hospital employees who participated in a 3-month fitness tracker pilot intervention.

Methods: Thunder Bay Regional Sciences Centre employees were recruited and asked to wear a Fitbit(TM) for 90 days (September-December). Physical, psychological, and behavioural data were collected at 3-time points (baseline, mid-, and post-intervention). A combination of semi-structured interviews (n=15) and open-ended surveys (n=15) were conducted following the intervention to glean the study-related experiences of participants. Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis.

Results: A variety of occupations were represented across thirty participants. Common themes associated with wearing the device centred around heightened movement awareness; internal versus external motivators; workplace/occupational practicality; and the intention-behaviour relationship.

Conclusion: Overall, the qualitative data revealed that participants valued their studyrelated experiences and attributed positive behavioural changes to the device suggesting that this may be a viable health promotion workplace intervention. Benefits of and barriers to involvement will be discussed, along with recommendations for scaling-up.

Poster #29

The Power of Softness: Exploring the Perspectives of Experienced Healthy Older Adults Participating in a CommunityBased Tai Chi Program

Nerida Koert van der Linden

School of Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Erin Pearson

School of Kinesiology, Lakehead University

John Gotwals

School of Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Taryn Klarner

School of Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Erin Cameron

Northern Ontario School of Medicine

Background/Objectives: Only 13% of older Canadian adults achieve weekly physical activity (PA) recommendations suggesting that health promotion strategies are warranted. Tai chi (TC) is a martial art that has been identified as an accessible form of PA for older adults. While research has evidenced TC's ability to enhance health among those with chronic conditions, no studies have investigated healthy older adults who are experienced in TC practice. To uncover avenues to enhance PA rates and adherence, the study purpose was to use qualitative inquiry to explore the perspectives of experienced, healthy older adult TC practitioners'.

Methods: Eleven participants (M age = 64.9 years; male, n = 8) who identified as healthy and had M = 13.6 years of experience in TC were recruited from a community-based program in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Semi-structured interviews, observations, and field notes were collected and analyzed thematically via inductive content analysis.

Results: Analysis revealed five themes with associated subthemes: reasons for joining (e.g., becoming active; novelty); participant principles related to TC and aging (e.g., being kind to an aging body; "doing it right"); challenges to practice (e.g., difficulty of movements; class size); facilitators for practice (e.g., health benefits; energy from softness), and group dynamics (e.g., delivery format; synchronized movement).

Conclusion: Findings suggest that among healthy older adults, TC is gentle and holistic, and facilitators to practice outweigh the challenges. Researchers and health care providers should adopt similar program characteristics (e.g., groupbased format, supportive instructors, facilitating social network) when seeking to promote PA in older adults.

Poster #30

Experts Prioritize Osteoarthritis Interventions from Cochrane Systematic Reviews for Translation into "Evidence4Equity"

Summaries

Elizabeth Houlding

Science, University of Ottawa

Jennifer Petkovic

Campbell and Cochrane Equity Methods Group, Bruyère Institute

Jordi Pardo Pardo

Centre for Practice Changing Research, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute

Peter Tugwell

WHO Collaborating Centre for Knowledge Translation and Health Technology

Assessment in Health Equity, Bruyère Research Institute

Background/Objectives: Osteoarthritis carries substantial health and socioeconomic burden, which is particularly marked in marginalized groups. It is imperative that practitioners have ready access to summaries of evidence-based interventions for osteoarthritis that incorporate equity considerations. Cochrane summaries can provide this. The present study surveyed experts to inform the selection of interventions to generate Cochrane Evidence4Equity (E4E) summaries.

Methods: We identified 29 effective interventions to prioritize. Key findings from these interventions were summarized and this information was provided to 6 experts in the field of osteoarthritis. Expert participants were asked to rate interventions based on feasibility, health system effects, universality, impact on inequities, and priority for translation into equity-based E4E summaries.

Results: Expert participants rated exercise and land-based exercise interventions across a number of dimensions within interventions treating osteoarthritis with land-based exercise rating highest for priority for translation into E4E summaries.

Conclusion: The survey generated information that can be used to direct and support knowledge translation efforts.

Poster #31

Step-by-step Adaptations in the Locomotor Pattern with Changes in Treadmill Incline

Taryn Klarner

School of Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: The plastic ability of our nervous system allows for a huge repertoire of behaviors. Plasticity occurs in a variety of nervous system levels and timelines, from acute changes in nervous system output, to chronic changes in cortical remapping. Investigating acute nervous system adaptations imposed by changing environment and task movement constraints can be used to inform the development of effective therapeutic interventions. The purpose of this study is to examine how treadmill incline effects changes in leg movements, pressures under the foot, and muscle activities during walking.

Methods: Short-term adaptations in walking were evaluated by examining the step-by-step changes in walking joint kinematics, kinetics, and muscle activity while participants perform walking on a motorized treadmill under conditions of changed incline. Treadmill inclines were changed during an experimental condition spanning +15 degrees of incline to -15 degrees of decline. Time series statistical analysis was performed to examine step-by-step changes and data were fit with an exponential function. Adaptation was quantified as the rate of decay exponent and compared between participants with an analysis of variance.

Results: Preliminary results reveal adaptations to changes in treadmill incline that are both phase and task dependent. Differences in rates of locomotor change reveal adaptations that could be driven by both feedforward and feedback strategies.

Conclusion: Acute adaptations are necessary to adjust to changes in environmental and task constraints as seen here. By understanding the scope of plasticity in neurologically intact participants, inferences can be made about the functional or behavioral relevance of plasticity for those with neurological injury.

Poster #32

An Investigation of Various Stretching Techniques on Hamstring Flexibility in Healthcare Students

Alysha Duivesteyn

Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Paolo Sanzo

Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Healthcare professionals have an increased risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders because of their work. These disorders can negatively impact quality of life and are associated with the development of pain, joint and muscle tightness, and numbness. Stretching has been proposed to improve flexibility, which may reduce the risk of developing musculoskeletal overuse injuries. Inconsistent research exists regarding various stretching techniques and hamstring flexibility. Purpose: To investigate the effect of stretching techniques (dynamic, autogenic inhibition (AI), reciprocal inhibition (RI), and static) on hamstring flexibility in Kinesiology and Nursing students using the 90-90 Test.

Methods: Participants were randomized into stretching groups. After a brief warmup, pre-hamstring flexibility was measured with the 90-90 Test (degrees). Groups completed one hamstring stretch for three repetitions. For AI and RI techniques, 10% of the participant's maximum knee extension force was applied for 6-seconds, followed by a 2-minute rest period. Post-hamstring flexibility was measured and a one-way ANOVA with a significance level of p<.05 was used for analysis.

Results: Thirty-six individuals participated (12 male, 24 female; aged M=22.08 years, SD=2.37; height M=171.24, SD=9.53; mass M=77.24 kg, SD=18.37). A significant difference was found between static stretching and AI, F(3,32)=3.458, p=.028; Wilks' ʌ=.251, µp2=.719 where static stretching (M=12.18 degrees, SD=8.79) produced a greater change than AI (M=3.16 degrees, SD=3.22).

Conclusion: The 90-90 Test found a significant difference between static stretching and AI. Future research could explore the effects of stretching programs over a longer duration and include evaluating muscle elastography with ultrasound imaging or activation patterns with electromyography.

Poster #33

The Biomechanical Effects of Rotator Cuff Taping on Throwing Velocity in Baseball Players

Kara-Lyn Harrison

Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Paolo Sanzo

Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Due to the repetitive, high forces and torques placed on an individual during a baseball pitch, shoulder pain is present in 46-57% of pitchers. Therapeutic taping has been used in various sports including baseball as it has been proposed to have beneficial qualities in injury prevention and rehabilitation and performance enhancement via muscle facilitation. If muscle facilitation is present with the application of tape, then this may improve throwing velocity and affect the outcome of a baseball game. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of taping on the velocity of an overhead baseball throw in baseball players.

Methods: 13 participants completed a dynamic warm-up, two practice overhead throws at their maximum velocity, and then completed three overhead throws at their maximum velocity while velocity was recorded with a radar gun. The maximal velocity throws were completed under three taping conditions (no tape, placebo tape, and Kinesio tape) with the mean velocity statistically analyzed using a Friedman Test with a p<.05.

Results: There was no statistically significant difference in throwing velocity with the application of the different taping conditions, X2(2) = 2.471, p = .291. Throwing velocity for each condition was as follows: placebo tape (Mdn=59.56 km/h), Kinesio tape (Mdn=54.72 km/h), and no tape (Mdn=51 km/h).

Conclusion: Overhead baseball throwing velocity was not affected under different taping conditions (placebo tape, and Kinesio tape) compared to no tape.

Poster #34

Risky-Play to Enhance Health?: Exploring the Perspectives of Parents with Preschoolers

Kayla Waddington

Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Erin Pearson

Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Children's physical activity (PA) levels have fallen below recommendations, while sedentary behaviour has increased. Lack of PA heightens risk for developing chronic diseases (e.g., obesity, diabetes) and places children on an unhealthy trajectory for adulthood; it is essential to instill healthy habits early. Risky-play is being examined increasingly as a way to enhance PA. Understanding parent views on this strategy is an important precursor to intervention development. To date, no theoretically grounded studies have explored parental perspectives on risky-play in preschool children. The study purpose was to use social norms theory to understand this phenomenon.

Methods: A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was employed. Parents of children ages 3-5 were recruited from local childcare centres. Interview questions explored risky-play in relation to actual and perceived norms. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using deductive content analysis.

Results: Ten individuals were interviewed (7 mothers, 2 fathers, 1 guardian). Themes emerged regarding facilitators (developmental benefits; autonomy; social acceptance; support system) and barriers (fear of injury; parenting style; geography; comparison parenting; the term "risky") to risky-play.

Conclusion: Applying social norms theory enabled an exploration into actual and perceived influences on risky-play in this context. Overall, it appears that riskyplay is highly regarded, but allowing children to participate is challenging due to safety concerns and social comparisons (e.g., perceived judgement from others). Study findings are applicable to local healthcare providers, educators, and stakeholders interested in ways to enhance PA as a means to improve child health. Practical strategies for implementation will be discussed.

Poster #35

Immigrant Parents' Knowledge and Perceptions of Strategies to Prevent Unintentional Injury to Children

Manal Alzghoul

School of Nursing, Lakehead University

Sabyah Azhar

Health Science, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: In Canada, preventable injuries are the primary reason for the mortality and disability of individuals ages 1 to 44 years. Children are at risk of different types of unintentional injury (e.g., falls, burns, poisoning, suffocation, drowning, etc.). Most of these injuries happen in and around the house and it is related to different social and environmental risk factors.

Parental knowledge and understanding of safety measures can reduce the risk of injury. However, information about immigrant parents' knowledge and perceptions of unintentional injury in Northwestern Ontario remains scant. To explore immigrant parents' knowledge and perceptions of and strategies to prevent unintentional injury to children.

Methods: In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 parents. The interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results: The majority of parents believe injures are preventable, understood their roles in keeping their children safe from injury, and were aware of the strategies that they should use to minimize the risk. They believed that they would benefit from obtaining information about the risk of injury in Canada that might have been different from the risk in their home countries (e.g., adapting to the cold weather, and being safe around water); injury prevention legislation (e.g., use of fire alarms, bike helmets, etc.); and knowing when to seek medical help.

Conclusion: The study highlighted the importance of supporting the efforts of immigrant parents to access resources to enhance their knowledge of strategies to prevent unintentional injury to their children and to respond to the new challenges (environmental and sociocultural) in Canada.

Poster #36

Identifying Physiological Response to Emergency Response Calls

Experienced During Sleep on One 24-hour Shift Among Thunder Bay Fire Rescue Firefighters

Sara Sayed

School of Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Brittany Kafka

School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University

Jessica Connolly

School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University

Joshua Hepburn

School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University

William Jeaurond

School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University

Regan Bolduc

Thunder Bay Fire Rescue

Kathryn Sinden

School of Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Firefighters work 24-hour shifts where they must be ready to respond to emergency calls while also attaining restful sleep.

Determining physiological response during sleep on 24-hour shifts provides insights into firefighters' tolerance to this occupational context. This study aimed to investigate changes in heart rate (HR), breath rate (BR), and heart rate variability (HRV) as measures of basal physiological activity and response to emergency calls during sleep cycles on a 24-hour shift.

Methods: Firefighters (n=5) were fitted with a Zephyr BioHarness, which measured mean HR, BR, and HRV during sleep cycles over one 24-hour shift. Sleep data was extracted from diaries maintained by the firefighters and further partitioned based on call type prior to and after primary response area calls (PRAC) and secondary response area calls (SRAC). Descriptive statistics were used to determine physiological response over 1x24 hour shift.

Results: SRACs elicited smaller physiological changes than PRACs on pre/postcall measures. HRV decreased on average by 0.1 (32.9) Hz in response to SRACs, but increased on average by 99.22 (81.70) Hz during PRACs. A mean increase in HR 2.57 (3.37) bpm was observed in response to SRACs, and a mean of 40.09 (20.91) bpm in PRACs. BR demonstrated a mean increase of 0.95 (1.13) breaths per minute (brpm) in response to SRAs, and 2.59 (2.06) brpm for PRAs.

Conclusion: SRAs were associated with increased physiological load. Firefighters' increased HRV in PRAs demonstrates improved autonomic nervous system control. These findings may provide preliminary evidence of a unique physiological adaptability in this population.

Poster #37

Occupational Therapy Vision Screening for Concussion: A Pilot Study

Stephanie Schurr

Outpatient Neurology, St. Joseph's Care Group

Background/Objectives: Disruptions in the visual system associated with mild traumatic brain injury or concussion have the potential to interfere with all aspects of human occupation, but the prevalence of vision signs and symptoms in this population compared to individuals without concussion has not been well studied. Objectives: Compare the prevalence of vision symptoms between individuals with and without concussion; explore relationship between symptoms and self-ratings of occupational performance.

Methods: A vision screening battery and occupational performance assessment were administered on 20 patients with and 19 patients without concussion at a sports medicine clinic. A sub-sample of 8 participants with concussion also underwent a diagnostic optometric assessment to validate these results. Independent sample t-tests and chi square analyses were conducted to compare mean scores as well as percentages of patients exceeding established cut-offs on the screening measures.

Results: Significant differences were found between individuals with and without concussion on assessments of convergence, positive fusional vergence, and self-reported number and severity of vision symptoms. Individuals scoring above cutoffs on two or more measures also reported poorer performance and satisfaction with valued occupations.

Conclusion: Individuals with concussion have a higher rate of certain visual symptoms than individuals without concussion and are more likely to exhibit two or more vision signs or symptoms. Having two or more vision signs and symptoms is also associated with reduced occupational performance and satisfaction. Occupational therapists therefore have a role in helping to identify individuals whose performance could be improved with access to specialized optometric assessment and care.

Poster #38

The Use of Innovative Cycling Helmet Technology to Reduce the Risk of Head Impact Injuries

Carlos Zerpa

Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Meilan Liu

Mechanical Engineering, Lakehead University

Shashankdhwaj Parihar

Kinesiology, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Cyclists' head injuries account for approximately 38.6% of patients' hospitalizations in North America. The most frequent cyclists' head injuries occur in the front, side, and back regions of the brain. Helmet serve as the primary form of head protection. Yet, cycling head injuries continue to occur. Based on this concern, this research study examined the use of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material as an avenue to improve current cycling helmet technology in mitigating impacts to the head.

Methods: The TPU material was inserted in a bicycle helmet. The helmet was mounted on a surrogate headform instrumented with accelerometer sensors to measure the magnitude of the impact. An air driven pneumatic horizontal impactor was used to strike the helmet in the front, side and back, three times per location. The dynamic measures of the helmet with TPU inserts were compared to dynamic measures of a helmet without TPU inserts for the same brand of bicycle helmets. Percent of acceleration and risk of injury measures were computed between the two helmet conditions.

Results: The outcome of the data indicates that the bicycle helmet with TPU inserts mitigated impact acceleration ranging from 8.37% to 25.48% across impact locations when compared to the helmet without TPU inserts. Similarly, the helmet with the TPU inserts reduced the risk of injury scores ranging from 20.97% to 27.62% when compared to the helmet without TPU inserts.

Conclusion: The TPU material inserts seem to provide another avenue to improve current bicycle helmet technology in reducing the risk of head injury after one impact. Future research will examine energy dissipation measures to further validate the TPU helmet technology.

Poster #39

Sociotechnical Approach for Designing Healthcare Systems

Sabah Mohammed

Computer Science/Smart Health FabLab, Lakehead University

Jinan Fiaidhi

Biotechnology PhD Program Coordinator, Lakehead University

Background/Objectives: Healthcare is all about people: patients and their families and friends, and the various healthcare professionals and caregivers. Many healthcare professionals, experts and organizations have turned to harnessing the natural properties of complex sociotechnical healthcare systems to learn concepts, theories, models, tools and methods, to redesign healthcare systems and processes and to improve patient engagement and quality of care.

Methods: This research introduces a pragmatic interoperability method to modelling the dynamically evolving sociotechnical processes, rather than as technical functions of certified devices with a rigid archetypes for interoperability. This method uses workflow design that recognizes the interaction between people, technology and medical devices and services in the healthcare workplaces.

Results: We used Node-Red workflow-based programming to design sociotechnical healthcare applications that breaks the design into data, processes that operate on that data and medical devices and interact with people including patients and caregivers, as well as the network that connects these processes together. The Node-Red design tool have proved to be effective to design remote patient monitoring healthcare applications that adopt workflow designed by caregivers and accommodate patient centered interactions and engagement.

Conclusion: Healthcare applications implementation is highly dependent on the design of these applications and the user acceptance and engagement. using a sociotechnical approach allow caregivers to develop workflows that integrate all these the required components including the patient engagement and interactivity. Node-Red enable caregivers to develop remote patient monitoring applications without the need for in depth technical assistance. Node-Red have the ability to connect with data, people and medical devices including mobile and wearable.

Poster #40

An Evaluation of "Living Well with Dementia: Creating Dialogues of Hope" Conference

Carlina Marchese

CERAH, Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Elaine Wiersma

CERAH, Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Nisha Sutherland

School of Nursing, Lakehead University

Emilie Gaudet

Health Sciences, Lakehead University

Katelyn Wheeldon

Health Sciences, Lakehead University

North West Dementia Working Group

CERAH, Lakehead Unversity

Background/Objectives: The North West Dementia Working Group (NWDWG) is a grassroots dementia advocacy group comprised of people living with dementia, and care partners. They hosted the "Living Well with Dementia: Creating Dialogues of Hope" Conference (September 22-23, 2019) in Thunder Bay. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the conference by exploring attendee outcomes, and the NWDWG outcomes of their participation in the planning process.

Methods: We analyzed 33 completed surveys from conference attendees. Survey items were rated on a 5-point Likert-type scale. We invited participants to write a comment on a leaf of what they liked about the conference, and on a flower for advice they would give to others. We held two focus groups with the NWDWG members.

Results: Four in five attendees indicated that they were "very satisfied" with the forum overall. Approximately 90% of respondents "agreed" or "strongly agreed" to the statement "I have learned new strategies or "tips" for living with dementia." The flower comments included themes of still being themselves, and staying positive. Participants commented that they liked the speakers, the people, the sense of hope, and the information. The NWDWG reported that the planning process was a positive experience. They enjoyed the socialization and relationships that were built. They also noted the importance of remaining active, helping others, and challenging stigma associated with dementia.

Conclusion: The Living Well with Dementia Conference was successful; it was a positive experience for the participants and NWDWG members alike. A similar event would be beneficial in the future.

Author List

Mary Adams

St. Joseph's Care Group adamsmar@tbh.net

Taslim Alani-Verjee Silm Centre for Mental Health taslim.alaniverjee@lakeheadu.ca

A Alaref

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre alarefa@tbh.net

Manal Alzghoul Lakehead University malzghou@lakeheadu.ca

Christopher Armiento

Lakehead University cvarmien@lakeheadu.ca

O Aseyev

TBRHSC asyevo@tbh.net

Sabyah Azhar Lakehead University sazhar1@lakeheadu.ca

Lisa Beck

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre beckll@tbh.net

Katie Beck

Meno Ya Win Health Centre katiebeckslkt@gmail.com

Michel Bédard

St. Joseph's Care Group mbedard@lakeheadu.ca

Barbara Benwell

Lakehead University bbenwell@lakeheadu.ca

Tina Bobinski

Dilico Anishinabek Family Care tinabobinski@dilico.com

Regan Bolduc

Thunder Bay Fire Rescue rbolduc@thunderbay.ca

Kara Boles

Lakehead University kboles@lakeheadu.ca

Kristin Burnett

Lakehead University kburnett@lakeheadu.ca

Mandy Byerley-Vita

St. Joseph's Care Group byerleym@tbh.net

Brett Caccamo Lakehead University bcaccamo@nosm.ca

Erin Cameron

Northern Ontario School of Medicine ercameron@nosm.ca

Stephanie Campbell

Lakehead University scampbe2@lakeheadu.ca

Lori Chambers

Lakehead University lchambe2@lakeheadu.ca

Jaidyn Charlton

Lakehead University jkcharlt@lakeheadu.ca

Jennifer Chisholm

Lakehead University jennifer.chisholm@lakeheadu.ca

Jack Christy

St. Joseph's Care Group jchristy@tbaytel.net

Jessica Connolly

McMaster University connoj1@mcmaster.ca

Elyse Cottrell-Martin Lakehead University ecottrel@lakeheadu.ca

John Dixon

Dilico Anishinabek Family Care johndixon@dilico.com

Mary Donaghy

St. Joseph's Care Group donaghym@tbh.net

Meagan Drebit

Dilico Anishinabek Family Care meagandrebit@dilico.com

Sacha Dubois

St. Joseph's Care Group duboiss@tbh.net

Alysha Duivesteyn Lakehead University aiduives@lakeheadu.ca

Jinan Fiaidhi Lakehead University jinan.fiaidhi@lakeheadu.ca

Stacey Freemantle St. Joseph's Care Group freemans@tbh.net

Emilie Gaudet Lakehead University egaudet@lakeheadu.ca

Ryan Gibson

Thunder Bay Police Services ryan.gibson@thunderbaypolice.ca

Audrey Gilbeau Nokiiwin Tribal Council director@nokiiwin.com

Kelly-Jo Gillis Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre gillisk@tbh.net

John Gotwals Lakehead University jgotwals@lakeheadu.ca

Elizabeth Grassia Lakehead University etgrassi@lakeheadu.ca

Patrick Gravelle

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health patrickgravelle@hsph.harvard.edu

Ekjot Grewal Lakehead University egrewal@lakeheadu.ca

Jack Haggarty St. Joseph's Health Centre haggartyj@tbh.net

Kathryn Halverson Lakehead University Kathryn.Halverson@lakeheadu.ca

Kara-Lyn Harrison Lakehead University krharris@lakeheadu.ca

Joshua Hawkins Lakehead University jhawkin5@lakeheadu.ca

Author List

Joshua Hepburn McMaster University hepbuj1@mcmaster.ca

Grace Herring

Lakehead University mherring@lakeheadu.ca

Alexa Hiebert

Lakehead University ajhieber@lakeheadu.ca

Elizabeth Houlding University of Ottawa ehoul060@uottawa.ca

Geoffrey Hudson

Northern Ontario School of Medicine geoffrey.hudson@nosm.ca

Sara Hyett

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre hyetts@tbh.net

Jennifer Hyslop

Canadian Mental Health Association Thunder Bay jhyslop@cmha-tb.on.ca

William Jeaurond McMaster University jeaurowa@mcmaster.ca

Kelly Jo-Gillis

Thunder Bay Regional and Health Sciences gillisk@tbh.net

Kristen Jones-Bonofilgio Lakehead University Kristen.Jones@lakeheadu.ca

Umme Kabir

Lakehead University ukabir@lakeheadu.ca

Brittany Kafka McMaster University kafkabm@mcmaster.ca

Courtney Kennedy Lakehead University cmkenned@lakeheadu.ca

Abigale Kent Lakehead University aekent@lakeheadu.ca

Niki Kiepek

Dalhousie University niki.kiepek@dal.ca

Amy Killen

Children's Centre Thunder Bay akillen@childrenscentre.ca

Taryn Klarner

Lakehead University tklarner@lakeheadu.ca

Rupert Klein

Lakehead University rgklein@lakeheadu.ca

Nerida Koert van der Linden Lakehead University nkoertv@lakeheadu.ca

Anna Koné Péfoyo Lakehead University akone@lakeheadu.ca

Jewel Kozik

Lakehead University jmkozik@lakeheadu.ca

Mary Kozorys

Elizabeth Fry Society mkozorys@hotmail.com

Author List

Vicki Kristman

Lakehead University vkristman@lakeheadu.ca

N Laferriere TBRHSC laferrin@tbh.net

Tracey Larocque Lakehead University tmlarocq@lakeheadu.ca

Evelyne LeBlanc

Canadian Mental Health Association Thunder Bay eleblanc@cmha-tb.on.ca

Deanne Lee

St. Joseph's Care Group leed@tbh.net

Tiffany Leung Lakehead University tleung1@lakeheadu.ca

Shalyn Littlefield

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre littlefs@tbh.net

Meilan Liu Lakehead University meilan.liu@lakeheadu.ca

Jessie Lund Lakehead University jlund@lakeheadu.ca

Angela MacIsaac Lakehead University amacisaa@lakeheadu.ca

Mariah Maddock

Canadian Mental Health Association Thunder Bay mmaddock@cmha-tb.on.ca

Carlina Marchese

Lakehead University cmarches@lakeheadu.ca

Nicole Marshall

Lakehead University npoirie1@lakeheadu.ca

Lynn Martin

Lakehead University lynn.martin@lakeheadu.ca

Dwight Mazmanian

Lakehead University dwight.mazmanian@lakeheadu.ca

Laura McGeown

Lakehead University lmcgeown@lakeheadu.ca

Daniel McGrath University of Calgary daniel.mcgrath@ucalgary.ca

Mandy McMahan

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre mcmahanm@tbh.net

Karen McQueen

Lakehead University kmcqueen@lakeheadu.ca

Kate Melchiorre

St. Joseph's Care Group melchiok@tbh.net

K Melenchuk TBRHSC melenchk@tbh.net

Ainsley Miller

Lakehead University ainsley.miller@lakeheadu.ca

Shakira Mohammed Lakehead University smohamm7@lakeheadu.ca

Sabah Mohammed Lakehead University sabah.mohammed@lakeheadu.ca

Helle Møller

Lakehead University hmoeller@lakeheadu.ca

Samantha Morris

Lakehead University smorri14@lakeheadu.ca

Heather Munro

St. Joseph's Care Group munroh@tbh.net

Jodie Murphy-Oikonen Lakehead University jlmurph1@lakeheadu.ca

Christopher Mushquash

Lakehead University chris.mushquash@lakeheadu.ca

Aislin Mushquash

Lakehead University aislin.mushquash@lakeheadu.ca

Ian Newhouse Lakehead University inewhous@lakeheadu.ca

North West Dementia Working Group cmarches@lakeheadu.ca

Robyn O'Loughlin Lakehead University raolough@lakeheadu.ca

Author List

Gail O'Quinn

St. Joseph's Care Group

Jordi Pardo Pardo Ottawa Hospital Research Institute jpardo@uottawa.ca

Shashankdhwaj Parihar Lakehead University sparihar@lakeheadu.ca

Erin Pearson Lakehead University erin.pearson@lakeheadu.ca

Jennifer Petkovic Bruyère Institute jennifer.petkovic@uottawa.ca

Alexandra Popowich Lakehead University adpopowi@lakeheadu.ca

Gordon Porter

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre porterg@tbh.net

Kristine Quaid

St. Joseph's Care Group quaidk@tbh.net

Abbey Radford Lakehead University arradfor@lakeheadu.ca

Edward Rawana

Lakehead University erawana@lakeheadu.ca

Brooke Raycraft

Northern Ontario School of Medicine braycraft@nosm.ca

K Roberts TBRHSC robertsk@tbh.net

Kendra Ryan

Lakehead University kjryan2@lakeheadu.ca

Pauline Sameshima

Lakehead University psameshima@lakeheadu.ca

Chris Sanders

Lakehead University csander2@lakeheadu.ca

Kathy Sanderson Lakehead University kjsander@lakeheadu.ca

Paolo Sanzo Lakehead University psanzo@lakeheadu.ca

David Savage

Northern Ontario School of Medicine dsavage@nosm.ca

Sara Sayed

Lakehead University ssayed1@lakeheadu.ca

Deborah Scharf Lakehead University dscharf1@lakeheadu.ca

Rebecca Schiff

Lakehead University rschiff@lakeheadu.ca

Fred Schmidt

Children's Centre Thunder Bay fschmidt@childrenscentre.ca

Stephanie Schurr

St. Joseph's Care Group schurrs@tbh.net

Lisa Seamark

Meno Ya Win Health Centre lseamark@slmhc.on.ca

Kathryn Sinden

Lakehead University kathryn.sinden@lakeheadu.ca

Kelly Skinner

University of Waterloo kskinner@uwaterloo.ca

Patricia M. Smith

Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Lakehead University psmith@nosm.ca

Savanah Smith

McMaster University smithsavanah9@gmail.com

Leanne Smith

Lakehead University lsmith6@lakeheadu.ca

Peter Smylie

Northern Ontario School of Medicine psmylie@nosm.ca

Nisha Sutherland

Lakehead University nsutherl@lakeheadu.ca

H Svyst TBRHRI dianasvyst@gmail.com

Kim Tanner St. Joseph's Care Group tannerk@tbh.net

Author List

Denise Taylor

St. Joseph's Care Group taylord@tbh.net

David Thompson Lakehead University dsthomp1@lakeheadu.ca

Elaine Toombs Lakehead University etoombs@lakeheadu.ca

Deborah Tregunno Queen's University tregunno@queensu.ca

Peter Tugwell

Bruyère Research Institute tugwell.bb@uottawa.ca

Kayla Waddington

Lakehead University kcwaddin@lakeheadu.ca

Christine Wekerle

McMaster University chris.wekerle@gmail.com

Derek West

Thunder Bay Police Services derek.west@thunderbaypolice.ca

Katelyn Wheeldon

Lakehead University kvwheeld@lakeheadu.ca

Carmela White

St. Joseph's Care Group whiteca@tbh.net

Elaine Wiersma Lakehead University ewiersma@lakeheadu.ca

Maggie Wilberforce McMaster University wilberfm@mcmaster.ca

Carlos Zerpa

Lakehead University czerpa@lakeheadu.ca

Katie Zugic

Dilico Anishinabek Family Care kezugic@lakeheadu.ca

The CAHR Learner Award is a monetary prize awarded to the highest ranked learner/student poster at the Showcase. Presentations must be on a topic relevant to St. Joseph’s Care Group (addictions & mental health, seniors’ health, or rehabilitative care). As well, the candidate must the presenter and first author, a learner or student at Lakehead University or Northern Ontario Medical School, and under the supervision of a CAHR member.

Author List

Thank you to the following individuals for their work on the Showcase!

Lisa Beckwick

Director

Organizational & People Development

St. Joseph’s Care Group

Michel Bédard Scientific Director

Centre for Applied Health Research

St. Joseph’s Care Group

Elyse Cottrell-Martin

Centre for Applied Health Research

St. Joseph’s Care Group

Remo D’Angelo

Corporate Learning Facilitator

Corporate Learning

St. Joseph’s Care Group

Sacha Dubois

Research Statistician

Centre for Applied Health Research

St. Joseph’s Care Group

Doug Eddington

NorthBEAT Engagement Coordinator

Centre for Applied Health Research

St. Joseph’s Care Group

Duncan Koza

Website & Graphics Developer Communications, Engagement & Client Relations

St. Joseph’s Care Group

Carole Lem

NorthBEAT Research Assistant

Centre for Applied Health Research

St. Joseph’s Care Group

Hillary Maxwell Research Coordinator

Centre for Applied Health Research

St. Joseph’s Care Group

Erin Paul

Communications & Engagement Coordinator Communications, Engagement & Client Relations

St. Joseph’s Care Group

Jason Whatley

Education Support Assistant

People, Mission & Values

St. Joseph’s Care Group