Implications For Nurses Research Articles

Pearls and pitfalls of OTC medications for seasonal allergies.

Seasonal allergies have a negative impact on patients' quality of life. Nurses must be aware of the different treatment options and lifestyle modifications to help patients manage their symptoms. This article discusses the benefits and risks of over-the-counter medications for seasonal allergies and other implications for nurses.

Chronic kidney disease in older adults: nursing implications for community nurses

This article will explore the implications of chronic kidney disease for older adults and discuss the vital role that community nurses play in the management and care of individuals affected by this condition

The Effect of Gastrointestinal Mucositis Care Training Given to Pediatric Leukemic Patients and Caregivers on Mucosal Barrier Injury

Background Management of chemotherapy-induced mucosal barrier damage and oral/anal mucositis in leukemia is challenging. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of mucositis care training given to children receiving leukemia treatment and their caregivers on caregiver knowledge and skills, the development of gastrointestinal mucositis in children, the mean oral mucositis area in children, and the mucosal barrier injury laboratory-confirmed bloodstream infection in the clinic. Methods A stepped-wedge, quasi-experimental, unpaired control group design was used. The participants in the control group were given routine training, and the intervention group members were given mucositis care training in accordance with the guideline recommendations. Results No significant difference was found between groups in developing anal mucositis, but a significant difference in developing oral mucositis was documented, with the mean mucositis area of children being 8.36 ± 3.97 cm2 in the control group and 4.66 ± 2.90 cm2 in the intervention group. The mucosal barrier injury laboratory-confirmed bloodstream infection ratio was 4 per 1000 catheter days in the control group and 3 per 1000 catheter days in the intervention group. Conclusion Mucositis care training had a significant positive effect on caregivers’ knowledge and skills, the development of oral mucositis, and the mean oral mucositis area in children. However, the training had no effect on the development of anal mucositis or the infection rate in the clinic. Implications for Practice Nurses might increase the knowledge and skill levels of caregivers with training on mucositis care, prevent the development of mucositis, and reduce the mean mucositis area. Training might also contribute to the reduction in the infection rate of the clinic.

Integrating Ecological and Feminist Perspectives to Study Maternal Experiences Feeding Children With Down Syndrome.

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to propose a theoretical framework integrating an ecological model with feminist theory for guiding future research in holistic nursing and healthcare about maternal experiences feeding children with Down syndrome. Background: Children with Down syndrome are at high risk for overweight and obesity, as well as feeding problems. Therefore, healthy weight promotion is crucial for children with Down syndrome. Feeding is one factor that may contribute to child weight. Literature on maternal experiences feeding children with Down syndrome, including the caregiving work involved in feeding, is limited. Methods: In this article, we identify literature gaps related to the topic of maternal experiences feeding children with Down syndrome. We summarize ecological and feminist perspectives and apply these perspectives to the topic to demonstrate the utility of the proposed framework. Implications for Holistic Nursing and Healthcare: Findings from future studies applying this theoretical framework integrating an ecological model with feminist theory will have implications for practice and research in holistic nursing and healthcare. This framework could be also adapted to inform future research focused on other populations or research topics.

Using single-dose liposomal amphotericin B for cryptococcal meningitis induction therapy: nurse pearls and practical perspectives.

In Uganda where the burden of HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis is high, conventional amphotericin B deoxycholate has been standard to manage patients with cryptococcal meningitis in research settings. However, liposomal amphotericin B (AmBisome) is now available via the efforts of UNITAID. We sought to describe our nursing experience using AmBisome within a clinical trial for cryptococcal meningitis. We describe the experience of using single-dose 10mg/kg liposomal amphotericin B from the perspective of a research nurse in Uganda. Second, we described the process of preparing and administering amphotericin. Third, we assessed the nursing time required for the administration of daily amphotericin B versus single-dose liposomal amphotericin. Fourth, we discuss the major challenges faced while using liposomal amphotericin B. We provide estimates for the nursing time required for reconstituting, filtering, diluting and administering liposomal amphotericin B and a visual aid for nursing tasks. Based on five trained nurses, the process of reconstitution and filtration lasts an average of 52 minutes (Range: 40 to 60 minutes), to reconstitute a mean of 11 (range: 8 to 15) 50mg vials (median weight 55kg). Overall, less nursing time was required for single-dose administration than for daily amphotericin B dosing. From a nursing perspective, liposomal amphotericin B was preferable to amphotericin B deoxycholate due to its reduced infusion reactions and other toxicities. Single-dose liposomal amphotericin B is a better alternative to daily amphotericin B. In addition to less toxicity, nosocomial infections, reduced hospital stay, and the potential for lower hospitalisation costs, the nursing implications should not be discounted. Quality nursing care is a finite resource in low- and middle-income countries, and single-dose amphotericin B reduced the nursing time required for the care of patients with cryptococcal meningitis.

Teaching psychiatric nursing with films during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study.

Interactive learning environments are known to be among the most effective methods used in education. Some of the interactive methods used in psychiatric nursing education are simulations, group discussions, case studies and video and film presentations. In psychiatric nursing education, cinematic films are among the online methods used. It is known that films used in psychiatric nursing education are useful for understanding mental disorders, the nurse-patient relationship, the roles of the nurse and the therapeutic environment. The COVID-19 pandemic deeply affected nursing education, and the difficulties faced gave rise to many new perspectives. After this period, it is of prime importance to update the nursing curriculum and develop new strategies in clinical practice. Teaching with films can help students to understand people's feelings, make sense of them and empathize. This method can have an emotional impact on student nurses and take learning to a deeper level beyond simple theoretical understanding. The findings of the study suggest that teaching through film is an effective method that can be used practically in psychiatric nursing education. Standardizing these practices may be an effective strategy for developing students' professional identity as nurses. This study is focused on undergraduate students, but has implications for nurses in continuing education and professional development of nurses in developing a positive perspective towards psychiatric patients, increasing self-awareness and reducing prejudices. INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic affected many areas of life and had a negative effect on education. This study investigated the impacts of using film as a method of education in students who were taking Psychiatric Nursing class during the COVID-19 pandemic, examining how this method contributed to theoretical and clinical practices of the students, their personal development and their viewpoint on psychiatric patients. This study adopted a qualitative research design. The study data were collected from 15 nursing students in June 2022. Interviews were conducted, audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. The method of education via film made contributions such as better theoretical understanding of the subjects taught, acquisition of analytical thinking skills and greater awareness of professional nursing skills and care practices. The students developed their professional perspectives, and their motivation increased. Using film is effective and practical when used in psychiatric nursing education. Standardizing these practices may be an effective strategy for developing students' sense of their identity as professional nurses. This study relates directly to undergraduate students and also has implications for nurses undergoing continuing education and professional development.

Practical Implications of the Organizational Commitment Model in Healthcare: The Case of Nurses

Background. In addition to the usual difficulty of managing human capital in any organization, healthcare institutions have other problems to solve arising from the circumstances and the very nature of the work they perform, such as the ethical pressure on staff, emotional exhaustion, the distribution of work shifts, or the general shortage for nurses. In many cases, this situation has an impact on the quality of care. Objective. The main objective of this research is to compile, in a single document, human resource practices that help health centre managers improve results in terms of performance and quality of care, as well as avoid the intention of abandoning the job, specifically related to the work of nurses. Methods. To this end, a systematic literature review has been performed based on 229 papers published in the Web of Science database, from which the practical implications for nurses proposed by these authors have been extracted. Results. The main results suggest that developing affective commitment helps to improve organizational performance and enhance patient safety culture. Furthermore, improving communication and meaningfulness of work, recognition by superiors, or job flexibility would improve the quality of outcomes, for the work of nurses. Conclusions and Implications for Nursing. Stimulating normative commitment, reducing excessive control, and paying attention to job burnout and job stress help combat the intention of voluntary turnover or leaving the job, especially in the case of nurses.

Generative Artificial Intelligence Detectors and Accuracy: Implications for Nurses.

Generative Artificial Intelligence Detectors and Accuracy: Implications for Nurses.

Sociocultural and perceived public image of nurses among nursing students: the mediating role of self-concept

BackgroundStudying the public perception of nurses among nursing students is vital in establishing strategic solutions to recruit and retain more students in nursing programs and to contain nurses in the health care system.AimThis study aimed to determine the mediating role of self-concept in the relationship between sociocultural and perceived public image of nurses.MethodsThis study employed a correlational approach using convenience sampling of 1390 participants. This study was conducted at six large universities in three regions of Saudi Arabia (central, northern, and eastern). Student nurses in their second to fourth years of study were included as participants, with an 89.7% response rate. Data were collected from January to April 2023.ResultsA significant positive relationship was observed between sociocultural factors and self-concept (r = .685, p = .0001). In addition, there was a significant positive relationship between self-concept and public image (PI) (r = .352, p value = 0.0001). Furthermore, there was a significant positive relationship between sociocultural and public image (r = .456, p = .0001); sociocultural had a direct effect on self-concept (β = 0.324, SE = 0.098, t = 9.429, p < .0001) and public image (β = 0.605, SE = 0.038, t = 22.617, p < .0001). Furthermore, sociocultural had an indirect effect on public image through self-concept (H6) (β = 0.389, SE = 0.123, t = 12.766, p < .0001).DiscussionThe study findings suggest that nursing school programs should take measures to foster a supportive environment that promotes self-concept and public image, while also being mindful of the sociocultural background. This would also open the scope for further research on the matter involving multiple centers.ConclusionsThis study suggests the need for programs to boost self-concept and public image that consider sociocultural influences. These ’findings have crucial implications for student nurses’ social and psychological wellbeing as they improve the understanding of how sociocultural affects self-concept and public image.

Nurses Perception and Role of Euthanasia: A Literatur Review

Introduction: Euthanasia is the most controversial ethical topic in the world of health. Nurses have an important role in providing holistic care for people with life-limiting conditions. However, they experience internal moral conflict and helplessness when patients ask them to assist in the dying process. This literature review aims to determine what is known about nurses' perceptions and attitudes toward euthanasia.Methods: The literature search was carried out using three databases, namely Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scient Direct. The inclusion criteria for the literature search were articles with publication years 2014-2022 in Indonesian or English and complete articles that could be open access. The keywords used in searching for articles were adjusted to the Medical Subject Heading (MeSH), namely knowledge, nurses' attitudes, euthanasia, and nursing euthanasia.Results: The literature review identified fifteen studies for inclusion in the final analysis. One article was semi-experimental, eight articles used a descriptive design with a cross-sectional approach, two articles used an epidemiological descriptive design, and two articles used descriptive-analytical methods. Nurses exhibit a range of attitudes towards euthanasia, including both positive and negative perspectives. Conclusion: The issue of euthanasia has presented a significant challenge for nurses in achieving their goal of providing holistic care. Their personal, professional, and transpersonal perspectives influence nurses' perceptions and attitudes. Potential implications for nurses relate to education, practice, and research. Nurses must be informed about existing laws and provided in-depth education and professional guidance to help guide action. Further research is needed to explore the impact on carers' emotional well-being, clarify their role, and determine the support they may require when engaging in euthanasia.

Academic-practice partnerships in evidence-based nursing practice: A theory-guided scoping review.

Academic-practice partnerships have the potential to solve many challenges in evidence-based nursing practice which is crucial for high-quality care. To identify the existing knowledge on academic-practice partnerships in evidence-based nursing practice. We conducted this review following the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review methodology. We performed a comprehensive literature search of nine databases as well as five websites for gray literature. Two researchers independently conducted literature screening and data extraction and analysis. A third researcher was involved when needed. Dedicated time, dedicated resources, and compatible goals were found to be the top three inputs in academic-practice partnerships for evidence-based nursing practice. Meeting and discussion were the most popular forms of activities. Sufficient resources were the most important facilitators. Insufficient resources, insufficient time, and communication issues were the top three barriers. The assumption proposed in the practice-academic partnership logic model (i.e., inputs plus activities can lead to outputs and outcomes) was preliminarily verified by the results of this review in the context of evidence-based nursing practice. Academic-practice partnerships can leverage the advantages of both sides to overcome barriers and promote evidence-based nursing practice. However, it is essential to conduct a broader range of high-quality studies. Such endeavors could offer more comprehensive evidence for refining the framework of academic-practice partnerships in evidence-based nursing practice. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING EDUCATION, PRACTICE, POLICY AND RESEARCH: The "theoretical framework of academic-practice partnerships in evidence-based nursing practice" could theoretically guide academic and clinical nursing staff to collaborate on evidence-based nursing practice and related research and education programs. The academic-practice partnerships in evidence-based nursing practice could lead to a win-win situation for both the academic and the clinical sides. Furthermore, the results of this study provide an evidence-based foundation for policymakers to develop supportive policies for academic-practice partnerships in evidence-based nursing practice.

Mental health and wellbeing in mesothelioma: A qualitative study exploring what helps the wellbeing of those living with this illness and their informal carers

PurposeMesothelioma is an incurable, asbestos related cancer with a poor prognosis. Little is known about how patients and carers living with the condition manage their mental health and wellbeing needs. This paper reports findings on interventions being used by patients and informal carers living with mesothelioma and those which they find most helpful. MethodsIn-depth interviews with patients (n = 10) and (informal) carers (n = 11) living with mesothelioma in the UK. We analysed our data inductively using a reflexive thematic analysis approach. ResultsParticipants described the importance of both smaller and larger actions and strategies which helped with their mental health. This included spending more time with family and friends and going on holidays. Professionals who participants said supported their mental health journey included not only specialist nurses and mental health professionals but also legal and Asbestos Support Group professionals. The latter demonstrates the unique needs and support required for this population. Exposure to asbestos as the cause of mesothelioma, has led to a social justice aspect of the experience of living with this cancer. Participants reported the importance of collective action to their mental health and wellbeing. The data indicate that patients and carers may have distinct mental health and wellbeing requirements and need to manage these in different ways at different times. ConclusionsFindings have implications for nurses and other key professionals working in healthcare, community and legal settings supporting this client group, and for those living with mesothelioma who want to understand ways to enhance their own wellbeing.

Nurses' use of an advisory decision support system in ambulance services: A qualitative study.

To illuminate from the perspective of nurses in ambulance services the experiences of using a web-based advisory decision support system to assess care needs and refer patients. Inductive and descriptive approaches. Thirteen semi-structured interviews were conducted in the spring of 2020. The data were analysed through the reflexive thematic analysis. The Swedish web-based advisory decision support system (ADSS) was found to strengthen nurses' feelings of security when they assess patients' care needs, promote their competence and professional pride, and help them manage stress. However, the system also generated difficulties for nurses to adjust to the dynamic ambulance team and revealed a discrepancy between their professional roles and responsibilities to refer patients and provide self-care advice. The nurses thought that the support system facilitated their increased participation and helped them understand patients and significant others by offering transparency in assessment and decision making. Thus, the support system provides nurses with an opportunity to strengthen patients' independence through information and education. However, in the care relationship, nurses worked to overcome patients' expectations. Nurses using the ADSS increased their security while performing assessments and referrals and found new opportunities to provide information and promote understanding of their decisions. However, nursing care values can be threatened when new support systems are introduced, especially as ambulance services become increasingly protocol-driven. These findings have implications for nurses' work environments and help them maintain consistency in making medical assessments and in providing equivalent self-care advice when referring patients to the different levels of care. The findings will also impact researchers and policymakers who formulate decision support systems. Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ). None.

Lived experiences of mental health nurses who care for clients who are parents: An approximation of Tronto's definition of care.

Adult psychiatric services typically focus on the mental health needs of the client but they do not support his or her parenting role. Many authors highlight the importance of a non-judgmental approach when providing support and care to clients with mental illness who are parents. Assessments frequently focus on the negative aspects while the strengths of these families were often overlooked. There is a lack of scientific literature exploring nurses' experiences when caring for parents with mental illness and their families. Trust is the basis that helps clients to be open to receiving care and answering parenting-related questions. Therefore, without adequate professional-client trust, some care and interventions addressed to parents with mental illness could be poorly received by the client. Tronto's phases of care facilitated the collection of data and exploration of mental health nurses' experiences of care. Mental health nurses should be aware of the potential needs of these families, as described in the scientific literature, so they can include them in their assessments. They also should consider the need to individualize each care since each situation of a family with parental mental illness is unique. Mental health nurses must take the person's environment into account (family, social and political aspects and different forms of stigma) since all these factors may influence how parents with mental illness receive and provide care. Introduction Many authors highlight the importance of a non-judgmental approach when providing care to parents with mental illness. However, assessments frequently focus on the negative aspects while the strengths of such families were often overlooked. Aim To explore the lived experiences of mental health nurses who care for clients who are parents. Method We conducted a qualitative phenomenological study. The main data collection technique was in-depth interviews. Data were analysed according to Colaizzi model, subsequently, the main categories that arised were compared and related to the five phases of Tronto's care. Results The main categories identified from the analysis of the interviews were: (1) individualized care, (2) continuity of care, (3) psychoeducation and counselling, (4) trust and (5) context of the client. Discussion Trust is the basis that helps parents with mental illness to be open to receiving care and answering parenting-related questions. Without trust, some interventions could be poorly received by the client. Implications for Practice Mental health nurses should be aware of the potential needs of these families, so they can include them in their assessments. They also should consider the need to individualize each care since each situation of a family with parental mental illness is unique.

The Implication of Diabetes-Specialized Nurses in Aiming for the Better Treatment and Management of Patients with Diabetes Mellitus: A Brief Narrative Review.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is regarded as one of the most critical public health challenges of the 21st century. It has evolved into a burgeoning epidemic since the last century, and today ranks among the major causes of mortality worldwide. Diabetes specialist nurses (DSNs) are central to good patient care and outcomes including confident self-care management. Evidence shows that DSNs are cost-effective, improve clinical outcomes, and reduce length of stay in hospital. In this brief narrative review, we aim to describe the roles of DSNs and their contribution in the treatment and management of patients with DM. This narrative review describes the importance of DSNs in healthcare practice, in the inpatient and outpatient departments, in the pediatrics department, in managing diabetic foot ulcers, in the treatment and management of gestational diabetes, in prescribing medications for DM and in diabetes self-management education on glycosylated hemoglobin, and cardiovascular risk factors. To conclude, DSNs have a crucial role in the treatment and management of patients with DM and its complications. DSNs have a great impact on diabetes therapy, and hence implementation of DSNs and nurse-led diabetic clinics might be beneficial for the health care system. Finally, having DSNs might significantly contribute to good healthcare practice and support. Even though DSNs are not available in several regions around the globe, and even though this post is still new to several health care institutions, the presence of DSNs recognized and certified by the various healthcare systems would be very useful.

Financial Health Literacy and Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Concept Analysis

Aim. To examine and clarify the concept financial health literacy (FHL) within the context of aging and healthcare. Background. Older adults have a high chronic disease burden and low financial and health literacy levels which often leads to high healthcare costs and poor self-management. Clarification of the concept FHL is necessary to better support nursing care and successful self-management. Design. Concept analysis using literary synthesis. Data Sources. Electronic databases were used to find scientific literature (i.e., PubMed, CINAHL, and Business Source Complete), and online dictionaries were used to find basic definitions. Review Methods. Walker and Avant’s eight-step method was used as a guide to construct a concept analysis of FHL. Clinical, aging, financial, and economic studies were reviewed to determine defining attributes, antecedents, and consequences of FHL on the older adult’s health. Results. FHL is defined as the knowledge, skills, and ability to make decisions that allow an individual to manage finances to optimally meet healthcare-related and household expenses, including resources to self-manage health, and plan for short-term, long-term, and end-of-life healthcare. Personal context, opportunity, and access are antecedents to FHL. There are 3 defining attributes: knowledge about health and financial-related concepts, skills in health and financial planning, and healthcare and financial-related decision-making behaviors. The 4 consequences of FHL include effective healthcare utilization, effective cost management, effective self-management, and positive health outcomes. Conclusions. FHL is a complex, multidimensional concept. A better understanding of this concept has significant nursing implications for research, clinical, practice, education, and policy development. Older adults have unique health and financial needs due to the complexity of retirement, living on a fixed income, and self-management of chronic diseases. Development of a FHL assessment tool and intervention is needed and may be supported based on the results of this concept analysis.

Respecting patient autonomy: legal and professional considerations.

In this month's Policy column, Iwan Dowie explores patient autonomy - a concept largely embedded within the community nursing setting. Through legal cases, a history of laws relating to patient autonomy are presented and its implications for community nurses discussed.

Patient dependency in the Oncology Emergency Room. Reliability and validity of the Jones Dependency Tool

BackgroundPatients’ dependency has significant nursing implications. Nurse skill mix and staffing levels may be addressed more successfully when dependency can be measured. In the oncology emergency room, a valid and reliable tool that measures patients’ dependency on nursing care is necessary. AimThis study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Jones Dependency Tool in Adult Oncology Emergency Setting at a Cancer Center in Jordan. MethodsA prospective cross-sectional design was used to test the Reliability and Validity of the Jones Dependency Tool among patients with cancer visiting the ED. A sample of 79 patients were assessed using the JDT and Conner’s tool. ResultsJones Dependency Tool showed a high level of validity and reliability. In terms of reliability, which was tested by test-re-test, Intra-class correlation (ICC) = 0.902 which indicates good to excellent. The tool demonstrates a high validity evidenced by its correlation with a criterion (p < 0.001). ConclusionThe study demonstrated that the JDT tool is a valid and reliable tool that can be used to quantify a patient's dependency level and the level of nursing care they need, assisting in the selection of the ideal staffing level in terms of quantity and skill mix.

New guidance on sodium valproate prescribing

At the end of November 2023, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency published a UK-wide National Patient Safety Alert relating to the use of sodium valproate in men and women with epilepsy. Sue Thomas outlines the rationale for this and the implications for nurses who are caring for patients who might be taking this medication.

Pharmacotherapy in the heart transplant recipient: A primer for nurse clinicians and pharmacists.

Heart transplantation (HT) is the definitive treatment for eligible patients with end-stage heart disease. A major complication of HT is allograft rejection which can lead to graft dysfunction and death. The guiding principle of chronic immunosuppression therapy is to prevent rejection of the transplanted organ while avoiding oversuppression of the immune system, which can cause opportunistic infections and malignancy. The purpose of this review is to describe immunosuppressive management of the HT recipient-including agent-specific pharmacology and pharmacokinetics, outcomes data, adverse effects, clinical considerations, and recent guideline updates. We will also provide recommendations for medical prophylaxis of immunosuppressed patients based on the most recent clinical guidelines. Additionally, we highlight the importance of medical therapy adherence and the effect of social determinants of health on the long-term management of HT. HT recipients are a complex and high-risk population. The objective of this review is to describe basic pharmacotherapy in HT and implications for nurses and pharmacists.