In settings of care for people who cannot breathe without support such as intensive care units (ICU), dyspnoea (the experience of difficulty breathing) is a frequent and terrifying problem. Recent reports indicate that dyspnoea in the ICU is just as commonly experienced as pain yet dyspnoea by comparison is poorly recognised, under-assessed and under-treated. This results in increased length of ICU stay, poorer physical and long-term psychological outcomes; and occurs despite the availability of potentially suitable assessment tools and evidence-based effective interventions for dyspnoea in the ICU. Implementation of dyspnoea assessment and management in Australian ICUs is largely unexplored and Leigh’s current research projects are looking to further investigate this area.

Leigh’s other area of research is looking at the role of exercise and physiotherapy during the management of abdominal hernia, and most recently for patients experiencing parastomal hernias. In this area, Leigh is working collaboratively with stomal therapy nurses and the School of Nursing at the University of Adelaide.