International study on catheters wins Research Impact Competition

Research Impact Competition Winner Evan Alexandrou with Vice-Chancellor Barney Glover

A medical researcher working on a landmark international study into the problems caused by catheters has won Western Sydney University's Research Impact Competition.

The Research Impact Competition gathered 13 of Western's promising academics to present their research findings to the public in under five minutes. 

Evan Alexandrou from the School of Nursing and Midwifery was awarded first place and $5,000 towards his future research after impressing the judges with his presentation "One Million Global Catheters Worldwide Prevalence Study".

Dr Alexandrou's research into the impact of peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVC) is the first of its kind, and will provide a snapshot of the prevalence of catheter use and complications, such as patient discomfort and delays in vital treatment.

Most research related to PIVCs is conducted and reported in economically developed nations, with the use and management of PIVCs in developing nations largely unknown.

Justine Humphry, Barney Glover and Vahid Vakiloroaya

The judging panel also announced joint runners-up. Justine Humphry was recognised for her presentation "Homeless and Connected: Mobile Phones and the Internet in the Lives of Homeless Australians". Vahid Vakiloroaya was commended for his presentation "Design and Development of a Novel Air Conditioning System for Carbon and Energy Reduction".

Joanne Orlando and Barney Glover

Joanne Orlando was voted the People's Choice Winner for her presentation detailing her research into children and technology.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Development) Professor Scott Holmes has praised the researchers who took part in the competition.

"Western Sydney University is committed to unlocking our institutional knowledge and research and making a difference in the wider community," he said.

"The Research Impact Competition showcases how our academics are using their time and knowledge to address some of the key issues in modern society, from improving health outcomes in the third world to helping parents get the most out of technology when raising children."

"On behalf of the University, I congratulate the winners and thank all the entrants."

Ends

28 October 2015

Mark Smith, Senior Media Officer