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AnteayerInternacionales

A theoretical framework for Acute Care Nurse Stress Appraisal: Application of the transactional model of stress and coping

Abstract

Aim

To develop a framework for understanding the stress appraisal process among acute care nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

A secondary analysis of open-ended responses from a cross-sectional survey of 3030 frontline, acute care nurses in New Jersey and the effect of burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Lazarus and Folkman's transactional model of stress and coping guided the study. Thematic analysis was used to analyse 1607 open-ended responses.

Results

Nine themes emerged during the secondary appraisal of stress. Five themes contributed to distress and burnout including (1) high patient acuity with scarce resources, (2) constantly changing policies with inconsistent messaging, (3) insufficient PPE, (4) unprepared pandemic planning and (5) feeling undervalued. Four themes led to eustress and contributed to post-traumatic growth including (1) team nursing to ensure sufficient resource allocation, (2) open channels of communication, (3) sense- of-duty and (4) personal strength from new possibilities.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic was a traumatic event for patients and the nursing workforce. Internal and external demands placed on acute care nurses increased burnout, however, a subset of nurses with adequate support experienced personal growth.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Beyond mental health interventions for acute care nurses, organizational interventions such as reevaluation of emergency action plans to optimize resource allocation, and work environment strategies such as improved communication and decision-making transparency are necessary.

Impact

To better understand how frontline acute care nurses experienced stress during COVID-19, a data-informed framework was developed that included a primary and secondary appraisal of stress. Themes contributing to distress and burnout were identified, and themes leading to eustress and post-traumatic growth were also identified. These findings can assist nurse leaders in optimizing strategies to reduce burnout and promote post-traumatic growth in the post-COVID years.

Reporting Method

No patient or public contribution.

Understanding the impact of chronic diseases on COVID‐19 vaccine hesitancy using propensity score matching: Internet‐based cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Aims and Objectives

To investigate whether chronic diseases are associated with higher COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and explore factors that influence COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in patients with chronic diseases.

Background

Vaccine hesitancy has been acknowledged as one of the greatest hazards to public health. However, little information is available about COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among patients with chronic diseases who may be more susceptible to COVID-19 infection, severe disease or death.

Methods

From 6 to 9 August 2021, we performed an internet-based cross-sectional survey with 22,954 participants (14.78% participants with chronic diseases). Propensity score matching with 1:1 nearest neighbourhood was used to reduce confounding factors between patients with chronic diseases and the general population. Using a multivariable logistic regression model, the factors impacting COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy were identified among patients with chronic diseases.

Results

Both before and after propensity score matching, patients with chronic diseases had higher COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy than the general population. In addition, self-reported poor health, multiple chronic diseases, lower sociodemographic backgrounds and lower trust in nurses and doctors were associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among patients with chronic diseases.

Conclusions

Patients with chronic diseases were more hesitant about the COVID-19 vaccine. Nurses should focus on patients with chronic diseases with poor health conditions, low socioeconomic backgrounds and low trust in the healthcare system.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Clinical nurses are recommended to not only pay more attention to the health status and sociodemographic characteristics of patients with chronic diseases but also build trust between nurses and patients by improving service levels and professional capabilities in clinical practice.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients or the public were not involved in setting the research question, the outcome measures, or the design or implementation of the study. However, all participants were invited to complete the digital informed consent and questionnaires.

The effectiveness of preoperative delirium prevention in intermediate to high‐risk older surgical patients: A systematic review

Abstract

Background

Few reviews have addressed delirium prevention among intermediate to high-risk older surgical patients.

Aims

To map preoperative delirium prevention interventions for older surgical patients at intermediate to high risk of developing delirium, assess outcomes and identify gaps in knowledge.

Design

Systematic narrative review of randomised controlled trials reported following the PRISMA checklist.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted of the literature published from 1990 to October 2022 in Medline, CINAHL and Ageline and of the grey literature in Google Scholar. Randomised controlled trials were retrieved that assessed the effectiveness of preoperative delirium prevention interventions for older surgical patients at intermediate to high risk of delirium. Data were extracted using a data extraction tool, and results were tabulated. Studies were assessed for bias using the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias tool.

Results

Twenty-one studies met the selection criteria including N = 5096 participants. Two studies tested cognitive training, two studies tested fascia iliaca compartment block and one study assessed femoral nerve block. Ten studies tested prophylactic medications including methylprednisolone. Five studies investigated geriatric assessment and management. One study assessed transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation. In the two studies testing fascia iliaca compartment block, there was a reduction in postoperative delirium for orthopaedic patients. Methylprednisolone reduced postoperative delirium in orthopaedic patients and in those undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. Results of all other interventions on the occurrence of postoperative delirium and additional outcomes including the severity and duration of delirium were inconclusive.

Conclusions

Despite the promising results for fascia iliaca compartment block and methylprednisolone, there is limited knowledge regarding evidence-based delirium prevention interventions. Most studies had small sample sizes indicating that the current evidence is exploratory. There is an urgent need for the funding and conduct of trials to test preventative interventions for older surgical patients at intermediate to high risk of developing delirium.

‘It's very values driven’: A qualitative systematic review of the meaning of compassion according to healthcare professionals

Abstract

Aims and Objectives

To explore the meaning ascribed to the concept of compassion by healthcare professionals.

Background

Compassion is universally regarded as the foundation of healthcare, a core value of healthcare organisations, and essential to the provision of quality care. Despite increasing research on compassion in healthcare, how healthcare professionals understand compassion remains unclear.

Design

A systematic review of qualitative studies was conducted and is reported following PRISMA guidelines.

Method

Medline, Emcare, PsychINFO and CINAHL were searched to November 2021 for qualitative studies in English that explored healthcare professionals' understandings of compassion. Included studies were appraised for quality before data were extracted and thematically analysed.

Findings

Seventeen papers met the inclusion criteria. An overarching theme, ‘It's very values driven’ underpins the four main themes identified: (1) ‘It's about people and working with them’: Compassion as being human, (2) ‘There is this feeling’: Compassion as being present, (3) ‘If I don't understand them, I won't be able to help’: Compassion as understanding, (4) ‘Wanting to help in some way’: Compassion as action.

Conclusions

Healthcare professional participants reported compassion as motivated by values and inherent to humanistic healthcare practice. The meanings healthcare professions described were varied and contextual. Qualitative research should further explore healthcare practitioners' experiences of compassion as part of their practice to inform health professions education, policy, and practice.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

To practice with compassion, healthcare professionals require supportive and humanistic organisations that honour each person's humanity and encourage people to be human and compassionate to each other as well as to patients, their families and/or carers.

Healthcare professionals need to reflect on what compassion means to them, how it is situated within their unique practice context, and how compassion can enhance clinical practice.

No Patient or Public Contribution

This systematic review had no patient or public contribution.

Exploring older people's experiences of the interpersonal care relationship between nurses and patients during hospitalization in the pandemic period: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aim

This article presents the findings of a qualitative study focusing on the experiences of people aged over 70 years in the interpersonal nurse–patient care relationship in hospital settings during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim was to analyse different aspects of this relationship, including nurses' behaviour and caring attitudes, the person-centred model of care, patients' involvement in their own care and communication in the hospital context.

Design

An exploratory qualitative study was conducted on the basis of an interpretative framework.

Methods

Six focus groups were conducted. A total of 34 participants were purposively recruited from three nursing homes in Spain, Italy and Portugal. Specific inclusion criteria were used to select participants.

Results

Five main categories were identified. Analysis revealed the importance of empathy and sensitivity in caring relationships, as well as the need for personalized and patient-centred care. The importance of effective communication and recognition of ageist behaviour by professionals was highlighted. In addition, independent of the pandemic, situational factors in the hospital environment were identified that influence the interpersonal care relationship.

Conclusions

The study highlights the need to promote a person-centred model of care that takes into account the specific preferences and needs of older people. This is achieved by identifying elements of the interpersonal nurse–patient relationship. In addition to highlighting the disparity of opinion regarding an active or passive role in self-care and decision making, the importance of addressing ageism and improving communication is emphasized.

What problem did the study address?

The importance of the patient–nurse relationship in hospital care has been highlighted in previous studies. Critical elements of the patient care experience have been identified as empathy and effective communication. Ageism in healthcare has been recognized as a potential barrier to patient-centred care.

What were the key findings?

The main findings highlight the importance of empathy and personalized care, emphasize the importance of effective communication and address ageist behaviours in the nurse–patient relationship.

Where and who will the research impact?

By highlighting the need for person-centred care and improved communication strategies, particularly in the context of caring for older patients during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, this research will have an impact on healthcare professionals, policy makers and carers.

Reporting Method

The COREQ guideline was used.

Patient or public contribution

This study adopted a collaborative approach to ensure that patient perspectives were integrated into the research process. We organized regular focus groups. Patients were actively involved in shaping the research questions, refining the study design and interpreting the emerging findings. Their valuable input helped us to understand the nuances of their experience and to prioritize the aspects that were critical to their well-being. In addition, their insights guided the development of practical recommendations aimed at improving the interpersonal care relationship between nurses and patients in hospital settings, ensuring that their voices were heard and reflected in the proposed interventions. This patient-centred approach fostered a sense of empowerment among the participants. It reinforced the notion that their experiences and opinions are integral to shaping healthcare practice.

The Use of mHealth in Promoting Therapeutic Adherence: A Scoping Review

imageNonadherence to therapy negatively impacts mortality and quality of life and results in suboptimal efficacy of treatment regimens, threats to patient safety, and increased healthcare costs for disease management. Mobile health solutions can offer users instruments that can promote therapeutic adherence. The objective of this review is to investigate the impact mobile health systems have on therapeutic adherence. Specifically, we want to map the main systems used, the functions implemented, and the different methods of adherence detection used. For this purpose, a scoping review was conducted. The following databases were consulted: PubMed, Cochrane Library, EBSCO (including APA PsycINFO, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, ERIC), including English-language studies published in the last 10 years (2012–2022). The main mobile health systems used are as follows: applications, automated messaging, interactive voice response, and mobile video games. The main features implemented to support medication management were as follows: reminders, self-monitoring instruments, educational support, and caregiver involvement. In conclusion, the use of interactive mobile health instruments intended for use by the patient and/or caregiver can improve objectively and subjectively detected therapeutic adherence. The use of these systems in the therapeutic pathway of users, with a special focus on people with comorbidities and in polypharmacy treatment, represents a challenge to improve caregiver health.

Prevalence of adverse events in pronated intubated adult COVID‐19 patients: A systematic review with meta‐analysis

Abstract

Aim

To present the pooled estimated prevalence of adverse events in pronated intubated adult COVID-19 patients.

Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources

This study used the Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Embase, LILACS, Livivo, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases as data sources.

Methods

The studies were meta-analysed using JAMOVI 1.6.15 software. A random-effects model was used to identify the global prevalence of adverse events, confidence intervals and the heterogeneity data. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool, and the certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach.

Results

Of the 7904 studies identified, 169 were included for full reading, and 10 were included in the review. The most prevalent adverse events were pressure injuries (59%), haemodynamic instability (23%), death (17%) and device loss or traction (9%).

Conclusion

The most prevalent adverse events in mechanically ventilated pronated patients with COVID-19 are pressure injuries, presence of haemodynamic instability, death and device loss or traction.

Implications for the patient care

The evidence identified in this review can help improve the quality and safety of patient care by helping to design care protocols to avoid the development of adverse events that can cause permanent sequelae in these patients.

Impact

This systematic review addressed the adverse events related to prone position in intubated adult COVID-19 patients. We identified that the most prevalent adverse events in these patients were pressure injuries, haemodynamic instability, device loss or traction and death. The results of this review may influence the clinical practice of nurses who work in intensive care units and, consequently, the nursing care provided not only to COVID-19 patients but for all intubated patients due to other reasons in intensive care units.

Reporting method

This systematic review adhered to the PRISMA reporting guideline.

Patient or public contribution

As this is a systematic review, we analysed data from primary studies conducted by many researchers. Thus, there was no patient or public contribution in this review.

Perceived quality of life and associated factors in long COVID syndrome among older Brazilians: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Aims and objectives

This paper aims to: (a) determine the personal, sociodemographic, clinical, behavioural, and social characteristics of older Brazilians with clinical evidence of long COVID; (b) evaluate perceived quality of life and determine its association with personal, sociodemographic, behavioural, clinical and social variables; and (c) assess significant predictors of high perceived QoL.

Background

Given the inherent vulnerabilities of the ageing process, the older people are an at-risk group for both contagion of SARS-CoV-2 and the perpetuation of residual symptoms after infection, the so-called long COVID or post-COVID syndrome.

Design

A cross-sectional survey design using the STROBE checklist.

Methods

Brazilian older people with long COVID syndrome (n = 403) completed a phone survey measuring personal, sociodemographic, behavioural, clinical, and social characteristics, and perceived Quality of Life (QoL). Data were collected from June 2021–March 2022. A multiple linear regression model was performed to identify salient variables associated with high perceived QoL.

Results

The mean age of participants was 67.7 ± 6.6 years old. The results of the multivariate regression model showed that race, home ownership, daily screen time, musculoskeletal and anxiety symptoms, and work situation were the significant predictors of QoL among COVID-19 survivors.

Conclusions

Knowledge about the persistence of physical, emotional, and social symptoms of COVID-19 can help nurses and other healthcare providers to improve the management of survivors, bringing benefits to the whole society.

Relevance to clinical practice

Given the novelty of long-COVID and its heterogeneous trajectory, interventions focusing on the repercussions and requirements unique to more vulnerable older persons should be developed and these aspects should be included in public health recommendations and policymakers' concerns.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution was required to design, to outcome measures or undertake this research. Patients/members of the public contributed only to the data collection.

Sustained delirium reduction in an inpatient neuroscience unit

Abstract

Background

Delirium is described as acute brain dysfunction that often fluctuates throughout the day and is highly prevalent in hospitalized adults. Delirium negatively affects patient outcomes with consequences including decreased cognitive functioning and increased mortality and healthcare costs. Furthermore, neurological patients are at increased risk for developing delirium due to their underlying diagnoses.

Purpose

The purpose of this evidence-based practice project was to evaluate the long-term impact of nursing education and use of trained volunteers to prevent the development of delirium in an inpatient neuroscience unit.

Implementation Plan

This was a pre–post designed evidence-based practice project to educate and prioritize nursing care interventions for delirium prevention compared to a delirium management framework. The interventions included delirium education for nurses and nursing assistants along with the development of a specialized volunteer program to implement non-pharmacological, multi-component delirium prevention interventions. Long-term sustainment and enculturation occurred over the subsequent year.

Outcomes

The baseline data collection period included 2520 patients. The intervention period included 4515 patients, with both groups being similar in age, race, gender, and length of stay. The total number of patients with a discharge diagnosis of delirium decreased from 29.2% to 19.8% (p < .001). Fewer patients in the intervention group were discharged to a skilled nursing facility (p < .001) and other post-acute facility (p = .008), along with more patients being discharged to home care (p < .001).

Linking Evidence to Action

This evidence-based practice project demonstrates long-term sustained reduction of delirium in the neuroscience population. Despite the challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, delirium prevention strategies were found to be effective in decreasing the rate at which patients develop delirium.

Self‐identified culturally related stressors that influence self‐care in older adults with multiple chronic conditions: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aim

To identify culturally related stressors that influence self-care in Chinese older adults with multiple chronic conditions.

Background

Effective self-care can improve health outcomes for chronic conditions, but implementing self-care is challenging. Individuals with multiple chronic conditions face even more self-care complexity than those with single chronic conditions, generating additional stressors. Although stressors have been found to negatively influence self-care in multiple chronic conditions, the role of culture in generating stressors has been neglected.

Design

This paper reports on the qualitative component of a larger mixed-methods study. Two free-response items in a survey were used to identify culturally related stressors that influence self-care. This report adhered to the SRQR guideline checklist.

Methods

Data were collected between January and April 2022. One hundred and thirty-eight free text responses asking participants to identify stressors that influenced their self-care effectiveness were analysed sequentially using deductive content analysis and thematic analysis.

Results

Findings from deductive content analysis largely confirmed published work in Western literature on stressors complicating self-care, including symptom burdens, financial strains, social disconnection, caregiving responsibilities and major life events. Findings from reflexive thematic analysis extended current literature by identifying three culturally relevant stressors: intergenerational obligations and commitments, ambivalence about receiving care and worries about potential problems.

Conclusion

Chinese older adults with multiple chronic conditions identified a wide range of stressors that impacted their day-to-day self-care. This study provided valuable insights into culturally related stressors in older adults with multiple chronic conditions. Findings deepened our knowledge of cultural influences on the success of self-care in older adults with multiple chronic conditions, suggesting the potential for reaching populations across different cultures and regions.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

Stressors that might influence self-care ability are important for nurses to assess in people with multiple chronic conditions. The design of self-care interventions should take a culturally tailored intergenerational family-centred approach to help mitigate the impact of stressors and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Impact

What problem did the study address?

Stressors documented in older adults with MCCs have all been generated from research with Western populations. China is now home to the largest population of older people in the world. Understanding the influence of culturally relevant stressors on self-care in Chinese older adults with MCCs is lacking.

What were the main findings?

Findings from deductive content analysis largely confirmed published work in Western literature on stressors that complicated self-care, including symptom burdens, financial strains, social disconnection, caregiving responsibilities and major life events. Findings from reflexive thematic analysis extended current literature by identifying three culturally relevant stressors in older adults with MCCs in China: intergenerational obligations and commitments, ambivalence about receiving care and worries about potential problems.

Where and on whom will the research have an impact?

The research will have an impact on guiding nurses' assessment of culturally relevant stressors' impact on self-care for older adults with MCCs. In addition, findings could inform research and policy development to aim at mitigating the impact of culturally based stressors on self-care.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) guideline checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

During the member-checking process, the validation of findings for accuracy was carried out by 10 participants, who also found resonance between these findings and their own experiences.

Impact of virtual reality‐based therapy on post‐stroke depression: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract

Background

Post-stroke depression is the most common neuropsychiatric consequence and reduces rehabilitation effectiveness. However, the efficacy of virtual reality (VR) on mental health treatment for patients after a stroke is uncertain.

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of VR as a co-adjuvant form of treatment to reduce depression in stroke patients admitted to neurorehabilitation units.

Methods

We systematically searched medical databases including PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov from inception to November 16, 2023. Clinical trials comparing the use of VR as an adjuvant form of treatment in stroke patients' rehabilitation with the usual treatment were included. Pooled standardized mean differences were calculated using a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses were performed according to type of stroke, VR characteristics, and the scale used to measure depression. Meta-regression analysis was performed for intervention duration and to determine the mean age of the participants.

Results

Eight studies and 388 stroke patients were included. The VR interventions were associated with a lower risk of depression in patients (ES = −0.69; 95% CI [−1.05, −0.33]; I 2 = 57.6%; p ≤ .02). The estimates were not affected by the type of stroke, the type of VR used, the blinding process, the type of scale used to detect depression, the duration of the intervention (weeks and minutes), and the total number of sessions. Meta-regression shows that younger samples (p = .00; 95% CI [0.01, 0.08) and longer interventions (p = < .05; 95% CI [−0.00, −0.00) lead to a greater reduction in depression.

Linking Evidence to Action

This review provides an important basis for treating depression in patients after a stroke. Professionals working in stroke neurorehabilitation units should consider VR as a form of co-adjuvant treatment for depression in patients.

Systematic Review Registration

CRD42022303968.

Big data research in nursing: A bibliometric exploration of themes and publications

Abstract

Aims

To comprehend the current research hotspots and emerging trends in big data research within the global nursing domain.

Design

Bibliometric analysis.

Methods

The quality articles for analysis indexed by the science core collection were obtained from the Web of Science database as of February 10, 2023.The descriptive, visual analysis and text mining were realized by CiteSpace and VOSviewer.

Results

The research on big data in the nursing field has experienced steady growth over the past decade. A total of 45 core authors and 17 core journals around the world have contributed to this field. The author's keyword analysis has revealed five distinct clusters of research focus. These encompass machine/deep learning and artificial intelligence, natural language processing, big data analytics and data science, IoT and cloud computing, and the development of prediction models through data mining. Furthermore, a comparative examination was conducted with data spanning from 1980 to 2016, and an extended analysis was performed covering the years from 1980 to 2019. This bibliometric mapping comparison allowed for the identification of prevailing research trends and the pinpointing of potential future research hotspots within the field.

Conclusions

The fusion of data mining and nursing research has steadily advanced and become more refined over time. Technologically, it has expanded from initial natural language processing to encompass machine learning, deep learning, artificial intelligence, and data mining approach that amalgamates multiple technologies. Professionally, it has progressed from addressing patient safety and pressure ulcers to encompassing chronic diseases, critical care, emergency response, community and nursing home settings, and specific diseases (Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, stroke, etc.). The convergence of IoT, cloud computing, fog computing, and big data processing has opened new avenues for research in geriatric nursing management and community care. However, a global imbalance exists in utilizing big data in nursing research, emphasizing the need to enhance data science literacy among clinical staff worldwide to advance this field.

Clinical Relevance

This study focused on the thematic trends and evolution of research on the big data in nursing research. Moreover, this study may contribute to the understanding of researchers, journals, and countries around the world and generate the possible collaborations of them to promote the development of big data in nursing science.

An examination of retracted articles in nursing literature

Abstract

Introduction

The output of scholarly publications in scientific literature has increased exponentially in recent years. This increase in literature has been accompanied by an increase in retractions. Although some of these may be attributed to publishing errors, many are the result of unsavory research practices. The purposes of this study were to identify the number of retracted articles in nursing and reasons for the retractions, analyze the retraction notices, and determine the length of time for an article in nursing to be retracted.

Design

This was an exploratory study.

Methods

A search of PubMed/MEDLINE, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Retraction Watch databases was conducted to identify retracted articles in nursing and their retraction notices.

Results

Between 1997 and 2022, 123 articles published in the nursing literature were retracted. Ten different reasons for retraction were used to categorize these articles with one-third of the retractions (n = 37, 30.1%) not specifying a reason. Sixty-eight percent (n = 77) were retracted because of an actual or a potential ethical concern: duplicate publication, data issues, plagiarism, authorship issues, and copyright.

Conclusion

Nurses rely on nursing-specific scholarly literature as evidence for clinical decisions. The findings demonstrated that retractions are increasing within published nursing literature. In addition, it was evident that retraction notices do not prevent previously published work from being cited. This study addressed a gap in knowledge about article retractions specific to nursing.

Nurse identity: the misrepresentation of nursing in the media

Por: Garcia · R. · Qureshi · I.

Since 2019, the nursing profession has been frequently represented in mainstream media in the UK through the lenses of the COVID-19 pandemic and more recently, industrial action. In 2020, during COVID, we saw the nursing profession praised, with weekly neighbourhood applause and thanks to the National Health Service (NHS) staff schemes. In 2023, when, for the first time in history nurses voted to strike (fair pay for nursing), nurses again received media attention. Conversely, the media chose to report how striking nurses (and other health professional staff) contributed to long waiting lists in the NHS and unhelpfully, demonstrated how 64% of poll voters (n=7955) did not think nurses should have a better pay deal.1 The reality is that nursing is central to the delivery of quality, evidence-based, and person-centred care in our health sector in the UK and represents the largest clinical professional group with approximately 334 690...

Using spatial video geonarratives to improve nursing care for people who use drugs and experience homelessness: A methodology for nurses

Abstract

Background

People who are insecurely housed and use drugs are disproportionately affected by drug poisonings. Nurses are uniquely positioned to utilize harm reduction strategies to address the needs of the whole person. Needle debris encompasses drug paraphernalia discarded in public spaces. Studying needle debris provides a strategic opportunity to identify where drugs are being used and target public health strategies accordingly.

Aim

Our aim in this article is to illustrate how spatial video geonarratives (SVG) combined GPS technology interviews, and videos of locations with needle debris, can elicit valuable data for nursing research.

Methods

Using SVG required knowledge of how to collect data wearing cameras and practice sessions were necessary. A Miufly camera worn at waist height on a belt provided the stability to walk while interviewing stakeholders. We wore the cameras and conducted go-along interviews with outreach workers, while filming the built environment. Upon completion of data collection, both the interview and GPS information were analysed using Wordmapper software.

Conclusions

This methodology resulted in data presented uniquely in both a visual map and narrative. These data were richer than if a single modality had been used. These data highlighted specific contextual factors that were related to the location of needle debris, which created opportunities for nursing interventions to support people experiencing vulnerability.

Definition and clinical management of haemodialysis central venous catheter local infections (exit site and tunnel infection): An international consensus assessment

Abstract

Aim

To evaluate the relevance of signs and symptoms for the clinical identification of ESI and TI in HD-CVC, by means of international expert consensus, and to reach a consensus on a definition and clinical management (CM) for these infections.

Background

A recent systematic review showed a high heterogeneity in the signs/symptoms used for determining exit site infection (ESI) and tunnel infection (TI) of haemodialysis central venous catheter (HD-CVC).

Design

A modified Delphi ranking process was carried out between November 2020 and March 2021, consisting of four rounds using an online questionnaire with a panel of 26 experts from 12 countries.

Methods

Experts responded on the level of relevance for the identification of ESI and TI, based on a list of 22 signs/symptoms obtained from a previous systematic review, using a 4-point Likert-type scale. After reaching consensus on the signs/symptoms, they followed the same method to reach consensus on the CM. The STROBE Checklist was used to report this study.

Results

A high degree of consensus was reached to identify the presence of ESI based on nine signs/symptoms: presence of pain at the exit site (ES) during interdialysis period, with fever ≥38°C do not suspect other cause, local signs at the ES (inflammation, induration, swelling, hyperemia/erythema ≥2 cm from ES) and obvious abscess or purulent exudate at ES; and of TI. Likewise, 5 cm were agreed upon.

Conclusion

This Delphi study provides international expert consensus definitions of ESI and TI in HD-CVC, laying the groundwork for the validation of an HD-CVC ES clinical assessment scale for early identification of ESI.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

In addition, this study provides a series of attitudes to consensual clinics regarding signs/symptoms of local infections in HD-CVC, which may be useful as expert opinion in clinical practice guidelines, when there is insufficient scientific evidence.

Nursing home nurses' opinions on the potential evolution of their role in antibiotic stewardship: A French national cross‐sectional survey

Abstract

Aims

To assess French nursing home nurses' opinions on the potential evolution of their antibiotic stewardship role, facilitators and barriers, and nurses' characteristics associated with their opinion toward new roles regarding antibiotic prescribing.

Design

We conducted a cross-sectional study in French nursing homes with ≥20 beds and for which an email address was available in a national database managed by the French government between May and June 2022.

Methods

A self-administered internet-based questionnaire of 43 closed-ended Likert items was sent to directors of eligible nursing homes by email asking them to forward the link to the questionnaire to the nurses and head nurses of their institution. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and χ2 tests.

Results

7215 nursing homes were sent the online questionnaire; 1090 participants completed it partially or totally and 923 fully filled in the questionnaire. A majority of nurses supported strengthening and expanding their antibiotic stewardship role. Regarding new roles, over 70% agreed that nurses could collect urine samples to perform a urine culture on their own initiative, prescribe microbiological laboratory tests, and change the drug formulation or the administration route of the antibiotic prescribed by the general practitioner.

One-third declared that they could initiate antibiotics for some infections and/or change the empirical antibiotic treatment prescribed by the general practitioner. Nurses from public nursing homes with connection to a hospital (27.5% vs. >35% for other status) and with recent experience in nursing homes (31% for <5 years of practice vs. 41% for 10 years or more) were less likely to agree to prescribe antibiotics.

Conclusions

This quantitative questionnaire survey identified potential new nurses' roles in antibiotic stewardship that seem to be acceptable and feasible for participants. These new nurses' roles need to be explored in future experimentations before considering implementation.

Reporting Method

The study adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines and followed the STROBE reporting guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

A self-administered internet-based questionnaire was sent to directors of eligible nursing homes by email asking them to forward the link to the questionnaire to the nurses and head nurses of their institution. Nurses and head nurses who were interested and willing could complete the questionnaire online partially or fully.

Trial and Protocol Registration

This study is not a clinical trial and is not eligible for trial registration. We used another suitable study registration site, the Center for Open Science.

A longitudinal investigation of structural empowerment profiles among healthcare employees

Abstract

Purpose

Research on structural empowerment has typically adopted a variable-centered perspective, which is not ideal to study the combined effects of structural empowerment components. This person-centered investigation aims to enhance our knowledge about the configurations, or profiles, of healthcare employees' perceptions of the structural empowerment dimensions present in their workplace (opportunity, information, support, and resources). Furthermore, this study considers the replicability and stability of these profiles over a period of 2 years, and their outcomes (perceived quality of care, and positive and negative affect).

Design

Participants completed the same self-reported questionnaires twice, 2 years apart.

Methods

A sample of 633 healthcare employees (including a majority of nurses and nursing assistants) participated. Latent transition analyses were performed.

Results

Five profiles were identified: Low Empowerment, High Information, Normative, Moderately High Empowerment, and High Empowerment. Membership into the Normative and Moderately High Empowerment profiles demonstrated a high level of stability over time (79.1% to 83.2%). Membership in the other profiles was either moderately stable (43.5% for the High Empowerment profile) or relatively unstable (19.7% to 20.4% for the Low Empowerment and High Information profiles) over time. More desirable outcomes (i.e., higher positive affect and quality of care, and lower negative affect) were observed in the High Empowerment profile.

Conclusions

These results highlight the benefits of high structural empowerment, in line with prior studies suggesting that structural empowerment can act as a strong organizational resource capable of enhancing the functioning of healthcare professionals. These findings additionally demonstrate that profiles characterized by the highest or lowest levels of structural empowerment were less stable over time than those characterized by more moderate levels.

Clinical Relevance

From an intervention perspective, organizations and managers should pay special attention to employees perceiving low levels of structural empowerment, as they experience the worst outcomes. In addition, they should try to maintain high levels of structural empowerment within the High Empowerment profile, as this profile is associated with the most desirable consequences. Such attention should be fruitful, considering the instability of the High Empowerment and Low Empowerment profiles over time.

Registration

NCT04010773 on ClinicalTrials.gov (4 July, 2019).

Perspectives and thoughts of pregnant women and new mothers living with HIV receiving peer support: A mixed studies systematic review

Abstract

Aim

The aim of this study was to systematically consolidate evidence on perspectives and thoughts of women living with HIV regarding the peer support they have encountered during pregnancy and after childbirth.

Design

Mixed studies systematic review.

Data Sources

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus and ProQuest were sourced from 1981 to January 2022.

Methods

A convergent qualitative synthesis approach was used to analyse the data. Quality appraisal was performed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

Results

A total of 12 studies were included, involving 1596 pregnant women and 1856 new mothers living with HIV. An overarching theme, ‘From One Mother to Another: The Supportive Journey of Pregnant Women and New Mothers Living with HIV’, and two themes were identified: (1) Emotional support buddies and extended networks and (2) Link bridge to healthcare support and self-empowerment.

Conclusion

Peer support played an indispensable role in the lives of women living with HIV and served as a complementary support system to professional and family support.

Impact

What problem did the study address? Pregnant women and new mothers living with HIV face preconceived stigma and discrimination.

What were the main findings? Peer support was perceived to be beneficial in enhancing emotional support among women living with HIV and was well-accepted by them.

Where and on whom will the research have an impact? Healthcare providers and community social workers could develop or enhance peer support educational programmes tailored to pregnant women and new mothers living with HIV. Policymakers and administrators can leverage public awareness, advocacy and political will to formulate and implement policies and campaigns aimed at fostering awareness and receptivity towards peer support interventions.

Reporting Method

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA).

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

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