ThIs ArTICLE rEPOrTs On findings from a qualitative research project (Overton, 2006) that highlighted a lack of empowerment experienced by, with and for eight early childhood teachers working in Tasmanian schools. The study investigated how change affects teachers, and focused on the theme of power as experienced by these teachers. The study noted three dimensions of power relationships in teachers' work lives: power imposed upon teachers (i.e. top-down, bureaucratic power); empowerment for themselves and others (reactionary mechanisms across or between teachers in search of empowerment); and disempowerment (behaviours, events and actions that actively eroded teachers' sense of empowerment). This article outlines the ways in which these teachers were constrained, yet sought to self-enable, in their work contexts. Recommendations and implications are included in the discussion.

Background Rapid testing facilitates safe and effective diagnosis, but the true speed of the process is the time from collection of a sample to delivery of an accurate and reliable test result – ‘end-to-end’ time. Transport, unpacking and relaying of information can extend this time considerably beyond the minimum laboratory turnaround times as stipulated by PCR testing protocols. Aim/Objective This study aimed to minimise time needed to ascertain SARS-CoV-2 status prior to treatment in a UK Dental Hospital using a novel, mobile, direct to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) workflow. Methods Process flow analysis and PDSA (Plan, Do, Study, Act) cycles for rapid continuous improvement were employed in a service improvement programme. Primerdesign™ q16 rapid PCR instruments and PROmate® COVID-19 direct assays were used for molecular testing. Findings/Results We showed a reduction in real-world end-to-end time for a diagnostic test from 240 min to 85 min (65% reduction) over a 4-week period. Discussion New rapid technologies have become available that reduce analytical time to under 90 min, but the real-world clinical implementation of the test requires a fully integrated workflow from clinic to reporting.

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