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AnteayerJournal of Clinical Nursing

Comparative study of clinical reasoning competence and self‐directed learning competence in nurses across varied years of experience

Abstract

Objectives

To compare and analyse the differences in the clinical reasoning competence of nurses with different working years and their relationship with self-directed learning competence.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey design (online investigation) was used. A total of 376 nurses were recruited from four independent hospitals in China. Online questionnaires collected data on nurses' demographic characteristics and assessed their clinical reasoning and self-directed learning competence. Pearson correlation analysis, t-test, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multivariate regression analysis were used.

Results

Clinical reasoning competence scores of nurses with working years >10 years were higher than those of other nurses. Self-directed learning competence scores of nurses with working years of <1 year and (from ≥1 year to <3 years) were lower than those of nurses with working years of 6–10 years and >10 years. Self-directed learning competence scores of nurses with working years of 3–5 years were lower than those of nurses with working years of >10 years. There was a positive correlation between clinical reasoning competence, self-directed learning competence and each dimension among nurses of different working years. There are differences in the influence of different dimensions of self-directed learning competence on clinical reasoning competence among different working years.

Conclusion

There were differences in clinical reasoning and self-directed learning competence among nurses with different working years. Self-directed learning competence is a positive predictor of nurses' clinical reasoning competence, which applied to nurses with all working years; however, the specific effect of self-directed learning competence on clinical reasoning competence differed among nurses with different working years.

Implication for nursing managers

Nursing managers should pay attention to the development characteristics of clinical reasoning competence and self-directed learning competence of nurses with different working years and determine effective intervention strategies according to specific influencing factors.

Nurse and midwife involvement in task‐sharing and telehealth service delivery models in primary care: A scoping review

Abstract

Aim

To synthesise and map current evidence on nurse and midwife involvement in task-sharing service delivery, including both face-to-face and telehealth models, in primary care.

Design

This scoping review was informed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Methodology for Scoping Reviews.

Data Source/Review Methods

Five databases (Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, CINAHL and Cochrane Library) were searched from inception to 16 January 2024, and articles were screened for inclusion in Covidence by three authors. Findings were mapped according to the research questions and review outcomes such as characteristics of models, health and economic outcomes, and the feasibility and acceptability of nurse-led models.

Results

One hundred peer-reviewed articles (as 99 studies) were deemed eligible for inclusion. Task-sharing models existed for a range of conditions, particularly diabetes and hypertension. Nurse-led models allowed nurses to work to the extent of their practice scope, were acceptable to patients and providers, and improved health outcomes. Models can be cost-effective, and increase system efficiencies with supportive training, clinical set-up and regulatory systems. Some limitations to telehealth models are described, including technological issues, time burden and concerns around accessibility for patients with lower technological literacy.

Conclusion

Nurse-led models can improve health, economic and service delivery outcomes in primary care and are acceptable to patients and providers. Appropriate training, funding and regulatory systems are essential for task-sharing models with nurses to be feasible and effective.

Impact

Nurse-led models are one strategy to improve health equity and access; however, there is a scarcity of literature on what these models look like and how they work in the primary care setting. Evidence suggests these models can also improve health outcomes, are perceived to be feasible and acceptable, and can be cost-effective. Increased utilisation of nurse-led models should be considered to address health system challenges and improve access to essential primary healthcare services globally.

Reporting Method

This review is reported against the PRISMA-ScR criteria.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Protocol registration

The study protocol is published in BJGP Open (Moulton et al., 2022).

Impact of COPD stage on self management with COPD patients: The mediating role of symptoms management

Abstract

Aims

It is extremely important to determine the relationship between COPD and self-management (SM) in the disease process. However, the impact of symptom management (SpM) on this relationship is still unclear. The study aimed to examine the mediating role of SpM in the effect of the COPD stage on SM.

Design

A predictive correlational study was reported following the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines.

Methods

This study was conducted between 15 February 2023 and 15 June 15 2023, with 306 patients. Data were collected using the Symptom Management Scale for Self-Efficacy and the Chronic Disease Self-Management Scale. Descriptive statistics and Process Macro Model 4 in the SPSS program were used for data analysis.

Results

Most of the patients were in the moderate stage of COPD; their SM scores were at low levels; SpM scores were at moderate levels. The model was significant, and the variables explained 65% of the model. The COPD stage was significantly positively correlated with SpM and negatively correlated with SM. There was a significant positive impact between SpM and SM. The positive and significant standardised indirect effect of SpM on SM evidenced a full mediating effect.

Conclusions

Symptom management has a full mediating role in the effect of the COPD stage on SM. It was revealed that the level of SM can be increased by achieving SpM.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Symptoms are vital in COPD. Progression of COPD increases symptom severity. Being successful in SpM greatly contributes to the achievement of self-management. Therefore, nurses should definitely consider symptom control in strengthening self-management in the care of patients with COPD.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients' COPD stage was determined by a pulmonologist involved in the study. Voluntary patients with COPD hospitalised in the pulmonology clinic were included in the study.

A qualitative exploration of the use of telehealth for opioid treatment: Implications for nurse‐managed care

Abstract

Aim

To characterise experiences with telehealth for Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) services among patients, prescribers, nurses and substance use counsellors to inform future best practices.

Design

We engaged a qualitative descriptive study design.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with prescribers (nurse practitioners and physicians, n = 20), nurses and substance use counsellors (n = 7), and patients (n = 20) between June and September 2021. Interviews were verbatim transcribed. Thematic analysis was conducted using a qualitative descriptive method.

Results

Among both providers and patients, four themes were identified: (1) Difficulties with telehealth connection (2) Flexibility in follow-up and retention, (3) Policy changes that enabled expanded care, (4) Path forward with telehealth. Two additional findings emerged from provider interviews: (1) Expansion of nurse-managed office-based opioid treatment, and (2) Novel methods to engage patients.

Conclusions

Patients and providers continued to view telehealth as an acceptable means for delivery and management of MOUD, particularly when utilised in a hybrid manner between in-person visits. Nurse-managed care for this service was evident as nurses extended the breadth of services offered and utilised novel methods such as text messages and management of ‘call-in’ lines to engage patients.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

Use of telehealth for MOUD should be incorporated into practice settings to reach patients in a flexible manner. Nurses in particular can use this medium to extend office-based opioid treatment by conducting assessments and expanding capacity for other wrap-around services.

Impact

We identify recommendations for best practices in the use of telehealth for opioid use disorder management and highlight the value of nurse-managed care.

Reporting method

The consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients with opioid use disorder and prescribers with experience using telehealth were interviewed for this study.

Children's and parents' experiences of home care provided by hospital staff: A scoping review

Abstract

Aims

To describe what is known from existing scientific literature on children's and parents’ experiences of hospital-based home care and to identify future research areas.

Design

The scoping review design used adheres to the methodological framework of Arksey and O'Malley, and to the PRISMA-ScR checklist.

Review Methods

A systematic search was conducted, and peer-reviewed scientific papers were screened through the application of Rayyan software. Data were extracted and presented in table and synthesised thematically as narrative text.

Data Sources

Searches were carried out November 2021 and updated November 2022 in the CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, Scopus, Web of Science, Academic Search Elite, and Amed databases and Google Scholar.

Results

A total of 1950 studies were screened and assessed for eligibility. Eight studies met the inclusion criteria by reporting on parents' experiences, whereas five out of these eight studies also reported on the experiences of children. Parents of children with cancer and preterm children reported feeling more in control, being empowered, and being more connected to their children's care team when their children were receiving hospital-based home care. The family's own resources were activated, and they felt more involved in their children's care compared to being in an inpatient setting.

Children with cancer, acute infection, chronic disease, and/or a syndrome reported feeling safer and more comfortable in their home environment and experienced better interaction with their care providers. Some aspects of the children's health-related quality of life (HRQOL) were improved.

Conclusion

The identified studies indicate that hospital-based home care is a valued alternative to traditional inpatient care by both parents and children. The mode of care has no crucial negative effects. Future studies should encompass the experiences of children with different diagnoses and syndromes and compare patients treated in a traditional hospital setting with those in a hospital-based home-care programme.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Children's and parents’ experiences of HBHC indicate that it offers a good solution if parents are well prepared and feel in control. In addition, certain structural conditions must be in place before this type of care can be established: there must be a certain number of patients and the hospital must not be too far away. In the field of neonatal home care, professionals should be more responsive to fathers’ needs and tailor support by focusing on their individual experiences and needs. Our findings may guide and inform best practice for present and future providers of HBHC.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Hospital-based home care can offer families a greater degree of autonomy, more flexible care options, improved family functioning, improved communication with care providers, and more control over the child's care. When certain structural conditions are met, such as a certain number of patients, the hospital not being too far away, and parents being well prepared and feeling in control, then hospital-based home care is valued as an alternative to traditional inpatient care. Specific aspects of children's HRQOL may improve, and the psychosocial burden on the family does not increase.

Impact

HBHC provides a valued alternative to traditional inpatient care and allows families to receive care in the comfort of their own home. Our findings may guide and inform best practice for present and future providers of hospital-based home care.

Reporting Method

In this scoping review, we have adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

There has been no direct patient or public contribution to the review.

Trial and Protocol Registration

Not required.

The impact of electronic and self‐rostering systems on healthcare organisations and healthcare workers: A mixed‐method systematic review

Abstract

Aim

To synthesise evidence from studies that explored the impact of electronic and self-rostering systems to schedule staff on healthcare organisations and healthcare workers.

Design

Mixed-method systematic review.

Methods

Studies were screened by two independent reviewers and data were extracted using standardised data extraction tables. The quality of studies was assessed, and parallel-results convergent synthesis was conducted.

Data Sources

Academic Search Complete, CINAHL, ERIC, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and PsycARTICLES were searched on January 3, 2023.

Results

Eighteen studies were included (10 quantitative descriptive studies, seven non-randomised studies and one qualitative study). Studies examined two rostering interventions including self-rostering (n = 12) and electronic rostering (n = 6). It was found that the implementation of electronic and self-rostering systems for staff scheduling impacted positively on both, healthcare workers and healthcare organisations. Benefits included enhanced roster efficiency, staff satisfaction, greater control and empowerment, improved work-life balance, higher staff retention and reduced turnover, decreased absence rates and enhanced healthcare efficiency. However, self-rostering was found to be less equitable than fixed rostering, was associated with increased overtime, and correlated with a higher frequency of staff requests for shift changes.

Conclusion

The impact of electronic and self-rostering systems to schedule staff on healthcare organisations and healthcare workers’ outcomes was predominantly positive. Further randomised controlled trials and longitudinal studies are warranted to evaluate the long-term impact of various rostering systems, including electronic and self-rostering systems.

Implications for Healthcare

Rostering is a multifaceted responsibility for healthcare administrators, impacting patient care quality, workforce planning and healthcare expenditure.

Impact

Given that healthcare staffing costs constitute a substantial portion of global healthcare expenditure, efficient and strategic resource management, inclusive of healthcare staff rostering, is imperative.

Reporting Method

The 27-item Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.

Prevalence, risk factors and impact of delirium in adult inpatients in a tertiary care hospital: A point prevalence study

Abstract

Aims

To describe the point prevalence, risk factors and possible outcomes of delirium in inpatients.

Design

A cross-sectional point prevalence study.

Background

Delirium is an acute brain syndrome that negatively affects patients, healthcare professionals and institutions alike; it is common in inpatient settings and is preventable in about one third of cases. Although guidelines recommend systematic screening and assessment, delirium is often unrecognised, undiagnosed and uncoded. There is a lack of valid data on this patient safety indicator in German-speaking countries.

Methods

The study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Switzerland on 5 July 2022. Specially trained registered nurses collected data from all patients meeting the inclusion criteria using CAM, ICDSC or mCAM-ED. Data were analysed descriptively with stratification by delirium status, setting and surgery.

Results

The point prevalence across all settings was 6.9% (27/390), with large variation between settings: ICU 28.6% (4/14), IMC 28.0% (7/25), wards 4.6% (15/326) and ED 4% (1/25). Surgical patients were almost twice as likely to be affected as medical patients (8.9% vs. 4.8%). Patients with delirium differed most clearly from those without by having a larger number of ICD-10 F-diagnoses, a larger number of medications and higher age, which are known risk factors. Moreover, those with delirium had more missed diagnoses, increased mortality, more adverse events and higher costs.

Conclusions

A significant number of patients experienced delirium and adverse clinical outcomes. Missed delirium diagnoses may further jeopardise patient safety and result in lost revenue. It remains unclear to what extent the risk factors and effects of delirium are causal and what determinants underlie missed diagnoses.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Consistent identification of high-risk patients and treatment settings with elevated risk, accompanied by the implementation of effective preventive and management strategies, is critical to addressing delirium.

Effectiveness of non‐pharmacological interventions in improving sleep quality after cardiac surgery: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract

Background

Sleep disturbance is highly prevalent among post-operative cardiac patients, with negative impacts on surgical recovery and rehabilitation. Post-operative pain and anxiety commonly seen in cardiac surgery patients are associated with poor sleep. Sleep medications commonly used are not ideal with prolonged usage, and non-pharmacological interventions can be good alternatives or complements.

Aim

To examine effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in post-operative cardiac settings on sleep quality, pain intensity and anxiety.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

PubMed, CENTRAL, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, CNKI and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses were searched on 12 October 2022. Randomised controlled trials of non-pharmacological interventions examining sleep quality for adult post-operative cardiac patients were included. Included studies were appraised using Cochrane Risk of Bias tool version 1. Meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan version 5.4.1, and heterogeneity was assessed using I 2 statistics and Cochran Q's test.

Results

Eighteen studies involving 1701 participants were identified. Coronary artery bypass graft was most common. Non-pharmacological interventions varied in types and duration. All intervention groups were compared to usual care, placebo, no interventions or active comparators. Statistically significant improvement in sleep quality (SMD = −.91, 95% CI = −1.17 to −.65) was found among intervention groups that explored cognitive behavioural therapy, relaxation techniques, exercise, massage, acupressure, aromatherapy, music, eye mask and earplugs. Pain intensity was reduced (SMD = −.63, 95% CI = −1.05 to −.20) with cognitive behavioural therapy, relaxation techniques, massage, music and eye mask. Anxiety was improved (SMD = −.21, 95% CI = −.38 to −.04) with exercise and music.

Conclusion

The overall use of non-pharmacological interventions can optimise sleep after cardiac surgery. Further research with greater methodological rigour is needed to investigate different intervention-related characteristics while considering potential confounders.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Post-operative cardiac settings can consider incorporating non-pharmacological interventions. Patients and healthcare providers can be better informed about the use of such interventions to improve sleep.

Registration

PROSPERO CRD42022384991.

Factors related to preoperative anxiety in older patients with sensory impairment: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Aim

To identify the factors related to preoperative anxiety in older adults with sensory impairment.

Design

Descriptive quantitative research design.

Methods

Study participants were 120 older adults admitted to a tertiary hospital in Seoul, South Korea to undergo eye or ear surgery. Data were collected from 11 February to 30 April 2023. The collected data were analysed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis using SPSS 28.0. The study was reported following the STROBE checklist.

Results

Preoperative anxiety differed significantly according to gender (p = .002), average monthly household income (p < .001), subjective health status (p = .003), subjective vision loss (p = .004), one-sided or both-sided eye discomfort (p = .002), use of glasses (p = .010), subjective hearing loss (p = .022) and anxiety coping mechanisms (p < .001). The results of a multiple regression analysis on the significant variables identified that gender (β = .178, p = .036) and anxiety coping mechanisms (β = .336, p < .001) had the most significant effect on preoperative anxiety, with an explanatory power of 34.5%.

Conclusion

The development and practical application of tailored nursing interventions catering to specific genders and anxiety coping mechanisms would contribute to reducing preoperative anxiety and providing efficient nursing care for older adults with sensory impairment.

Interventions to improve nurse–family communication in the emergency department: A scoping review

Abstract

Aim

To determine and describe what interventions exist to improve nurse–family communication during the waiting period of an emergency department visit.

Background

Communication between nurses and families is an area needing improvement. Good communication can improve patient outcomes, satisfaction with care and decrease patient and family anxiety.

Design

Scoping Review.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institution methodology: (1) identify the research question, (2) define the inclusion criteria, (3) use a search strategy to identify relevant studies using a three-step approach, (4) select studies using a team approach, (5) data extraction, (6) data analysis, and (7) presentation of results.

Data Sources

Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE, PsychInfo and grey literature were searched on 3 August 2022.

Results

The search yielded 1771 articles from the databases, of which 20 were included. An additional seven articles were included from the grey literature. Paediatric and adult interventions were found targeting staff and family of which the general recommendations were summarised into communication models.

Conclusion

Future research should focus on evaluating the effectiveness of interventions using a standardised scale, understanding the specific needs of families, and exploring the communication models developed in this review.

Implications for Clinical Practice

Communication models for triage nurses and all emergency department nurses were developed. These may guide nurses to improve their communication which will contribute to improving family satisfaction.

Reporting Method

PRISMA-ScR.

Trial and Protocol Registration

Protocol has been registered with the Open Science Framework, registration number 10.17605/OSF.IO/ETSYB.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Impact effects of COVID‐19 pandemic on chronic disease patients: A longitudinal prospective study

Abstract

Aims

To assess the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on clinical variables as part of the routine clinical monitoring of patients with chronic diseases in primary care.

Design

A prospective longitudinal study was conducted in primary care centres of the Andalusian Health Service.

Methods

Data were recorded before the pandemic (T1), during the declaration of the state of emergency (T2) and in the transition phase (T3). The Barthel index and the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire (SPMSQ) were used to analyse functional and cognitive changes at the three time points. HbA1c, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, BMI and lipid levels were assessed as clinical variables. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric chi-square test were used for analysis. STROBE checklist was used for the preparation of this paper.

Results

A total fo148 patients with chronic conditions were included in the analysis. Data analysis revealed in T2 only significant reductions in BMI, total levels of cholesterol and HDL during the onset of the pandemic. Barthel Index, SPMSQ, blood pressure and triglycerides and LDL levels worsened in T2, and the negative effects were maintained in T3. Compared to pre-pandemic values, HbA1c levels improved in T3, but HDL levels worsened.

Conclusions

COVID-19 has drastically disrupted several functional, cognitive and biological variables. These results may be useful in identifying clinical parameters that deserve closer attention in the case of a new health crisis. Further studies are needed to assess the potential impacts of each specific chronic condition.

Impact

Cognitive and functional status, blood pressure and triglycerides and LDL levels worsen in short term, maintaining the negative effects in medium-term.

Barriers and facilitators to patient education provided by nurses: A mixed‐method systematic review

Abstract

Aim

To investigate the factors that facilitate or hinder nurses in providing patient education.

Design

A mixed-method systematic review.

Data Sources

Six databases (Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, MEDLINE and ERIC) were systematically searched for relevant publications.

Methods

The study was conducted following the JBI for mixed-method systematic reviews, and the reporting followed the PRISMA guideline. Two researchers independently performed literature screening, literature evaluation, data extraction and synthesis. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023427451.

Results

Twenty-six eligible articles were included, including 15 quantitative articles, 10 qualitative articles and 2 mixed-methods articles. The resultant synthesis of key findings led to the identification of these barriers and facilitators, categorised into five distinct levels: nurse-related factors, organisational factors, patient-related factors, the nurse–patient relationship and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the factors that facilitate or hinder nurses in providing patient education, suggesting that multifaceted interventions can enhance the practice of patient education in nursing and support the development of appropriate patient education guidelines or public policies.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This review delineates the facilitators and barriers influencing nurses' provision of patient education, offering an initial framework for nursing managers to craft interventions aimed at enhancing the quality of patient education provided by nurses, consequently elevating the overall quality of nursing.

The utility of the surprise question by nurses to identify hospitalised older patients nearing the end‐of‐life and promotion of advance care planning: An interventional study

Abstract

Aims and Objectives

To assess the prognostic accuracy of the surprise question (SQ) when used by nurses working in hospital wards to determine 1-year mortality in acutely hospitalised older patients.

Background

The predictive accuracy of the SQ, when used by general nurses caring for older hospitalised patients, has not been comprehensively studied.

Design

A prospective cohort study.

Methods

This cohort study recruited consecutive 10,139 older patients (aged ≥65 years) who were admitted to Taipei City Hospital and were evaluated for the needs of palliative care in 2015. All patients were followed up for 12 months or until their death. The c-statistic value was calculated to indicate the predictive accuracy of the SQ and Palliative Care Screening Tool (PCST).

Results

Of all participants, 18.8% and 18.6% had a SQ response of ‘no’ and a PCST score ≥4, respectively. After controlling for other covariates, an SQ response of ‘no’ (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 2.05; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.83–2.31) and a PCST score ≥4 (AHR = 1.50; 95% CI: 1.29–1.75) were found to be the independent predictors for patients' 12-month mortality. The C-statistic values of the SQ and the PCST at recognising patients in their last year of life were .663 and .670, respectively. Moreover, there was moderate concordance (k = .44) between the SQ and the PCST in predicting 12-month mortality.

Conclusions

SQ response of ‘no’ and a PCST score ≥4 were independent predictors of 12-month mortality in older patients.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The SQ, when used by nurses working in hospital wards, is effective in identifying older patients nearing the end of life, as well as in providing advance care planning for patients.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients' palliative care needs at admission were assessed by general nurses using the SQ and PCST.

Factors related to nurses' beliefs regarding pain assessment in people living with dementia

Abstract

Aim

To evaluate registered nurses' beliefs and related factors regarding pain assessment in people living with dementia.

Design

A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted between July 2022 and April 2023.

Methods

An online survey comprised of demographics, knowledge scale, and beliefs scale relating to pain assessment in dementia was distributed to registered nurses (RNs) caring for people living with dementia in Australia.

Results

RNs (N = 131) completed the survey. Most respondents were females (87.0%) and self-identified as Caucasian (60.3%). The mean beliefs score was 72.60 (±6.39) out of a maximum possible score of 95. RNs' beliefs about pain assessment varied based on their education, dementia pain assessment knowledge, nursing experience, and ethnicity. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed factors significantly related to the beliefs score (i.e. education and dementia pain assessment knowledge).

Conclusion

The relationship between education and knowledge, and the beliefs score indicates the potential to improve RNs' knowledge and overcome their erroneous beliefs about pain assessment in dementia.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

Education and training in assessing pain in people living with dementia should be tailored to overcome RNs' misconceived beliefs. These programmes should be integrated into continuous learning programmes.

Impact

Some RNs' beliefs about pain assessment in dementia were not evidence-based, and knowledge and educational status were the strongest factors related to RNs' beliefs. RNs' erroneous beliefs about pain assessment in dementia need to be addressed to improve pain assessment and management. Researchers should explore the potential of educational interventions to overcome RNs' misconceived beliefs about pain assessment in dementia.

Reporting Method

This study was reported adhering to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

RNs caring for people living with dementia participated as survey respondents. Additionally, RNs were involved in the pre-testing of the study's survey instrument.

Efficacy of nonpharmacological interventions for severe radiation‐induced oral mucositis among head and neck cancer patients: A network meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials

Abstract

Aims and Objectives

To assess the effectiveness of different nonpharmacological treatments for severe radiation-induced oral mucositis in patients with head and neck cancer.

Background

Radiation-induced oral mucositis is highly prevalent in patients with head and neck cancer. Current medications for radiation-induced oral mucositis are limited in effectiveness and susceptible to side effects, and while there is an increasing adoption of nonpharmacological interventions, the optimal one remains unclear.

Design

Systematic review and network meta-analysis based on the PRISMA-NMA guidelines.

Methods

Six databases were searched. Two authors independently performed the literature screening, data extraction and methodological quality assessment of the included studies. Traditional pairwise meta-analysis was performed by R Studio. A network meta-analysis was then conducted to assess the effects of nonpharmacological interventions for severe radiation-induced oral mucositis in patients with head and neck cancer.

Results

Fifty-two studies involving seven types of nonpharmacological interventions were enrolled. The network meta-analysis indicated that natural plant-based therapies might be the most effective, health education interventions might be the second most effective, and honey might be the third most effective interventions for reducing the incidence of severe radiation-induced oral mucositis. For reducing the incidence of severe oral mucositis-related pain, the pairwise meta-analysis showed that only natural plant-based therapies and health education interventions were effective.

Conclusions

Nonpharmacological interventions are effective in the management of severe radiation-induced oral mucositis among patients with head and neck cancer.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nonpharmacological interventions are a category of safe and effective adjunctive therapies that should be encouraged in clinical practice.

Trial registration details

CRD42023400745.

Nursing standards, language and age as variables associated with clinical competence for nurses in long‐term care facilities: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Aim

To identify and examine the explanatory variables associated with clinical competence among registered nurses (RNs) and practical nurses (PNs) working in long-term care facilities (LTCF) for older adults.

Design and Methods

This was a cross-sectional study. The competence test, ‘the Ms. Olsen test’, was used for data collection. A convenience sample of 337 nursing staff working in LTCFs for older adults was selected between December 2020 and January 2021. A quantitative, non-experimental approach with multiple linear regression analysis examined the explanatory variables associated with clinical competence and the outcome variables.

Results

The main findings of the linear regression analysis show that the nursing staff's increasing age, use of Swedish as a working language and use of the Finnish nursing practice standards had statistically significant relationships with clinical competence among the participating nursing staff.

Conclusion

This is the first knowledge test that has been developed to test nursing staff's clinical competence in elderly care. In this study in Finland, the highest clinical competence was among the nursing staff who were Swedish-speaking RNs working in institutional care homes caring for patients according to national practice standards.

Implications

These results may be useful to nursing staff and managers working in elderly care to understand the explanatory variables associated with clinical competence in elderly care in Finland and in bilingual settings. The study highlights the importance of using national nursing standards in elderly nursing care. Knowing the explanatory variables associated with clinical competence can provide guidance for the further education of nursing staff in these settings.

Impact

Caring according to national practice standards and caring for severely ill patients are associated with clinical competence.

Reporting Method

The authors adhered to the EQUATOR network guidelines Appendix S1 STROBE to report observational cross-sectional studies.

Patient or Public Contribution

Registered and PNs completed a questionnaire for the data collection.

“But what do you really think?” Nurses' contrasting explicit and implicit attitudes towards people with disabilities using the implicit association test

Abstract

Aims

To investigate how nurses' implicit and explicit attitudes towards people with disabilities (PWD) compare to (1) other healthcare providers and (2) non-healthcare providers.

Method

We present an analysis of secondary data from the publicly available disability Implicit Association Test (IAT). We compare the explicit and implicit attitudes towards PWD for (1) nurses (n = 24,545), (2) other healthcare providers (n = 57,818) and (3) non-healthcare providers (n = 547,966) for a total of 630,238 respondents, between 2006 and 2021.

Data Sources

We use publicly available data for the Disability IAT from Open Science Framework repository of Project Implicit available at https://osf.io/tx5fi/.

Reporting

STROBE checklist.

Results

There is a distinct contrast between nurses' explicit and implicit attitudes. While nurses have more positive explicit attitudes towards PWD compared to other groups, they also have more negative implicit attitudes towards PWD. As such there is a contrast between nurses' stated (explicit) attitudes and their unconscious (implicit) attitudes towards PWD. Further, we find that implicit bias towards PWD—among all groups—has not improved over the 15 year period of our sample.

Conclusions

We present a contrast between nurses' explicit and implicit attitude towards PWD compared to non-healthcare providers. We posit that implicit bias is driven by a combination of workload and stress which drives nurses to unconscious modes of thinking more frequently.

Implications

We discuss three potential tools for improved educational praxis regarding treatment of PWD; (1) more PWD service user involvement, (2) the use of mindfulness techniques to reduce stress and (3) the use of patient contact simulation to promote education and understanding.

Patient or Public Contribution

There is no patient or public contribution.

Importance of specific vital signs in nurses' recognition and response to deteriorating patients: A scoping review

Abstract

Aim(s)

To explore the published research related to nurses' documentation and use of vital signs in recognising and responding to deteriorating patients.

Design

Scoping review of international, peer-reviewed research studies.

Data Sources

Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature Complete, Medline Complete, American Psychological Association PsycInfo and Excerpta Medica were searched on 25 July 2023.

Reporting Method

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews.

Results

Of 3880 potentially eligible publications, 32 were included. There were 26 studies of nurses' vital sign documentation: 21 adults and five paediatric. The most and least frequently documented vital signs were blood pressure and respiratory rate respectively. Seven studies focused on vital signs and rapid response activation or afferent limb failure. Five studies of vital signs used to trigger the rapid response system showed heart rate was the most frequent and respiratory rate and conscious state were the least frequent. Heart rate was least likely and oxygen saturation was most likely to be associated with afferent limb failure (n = 4 studies).

Conclusion

Despite high reliance on using vital signs to recognise clinical deterioration and activate a response to deteriorating patients in hospital settings, nurses' documentation of vital signs and use of vital signs to activate rapid response systems is poorly understood. There were 21studies of nurses' vital sign documentation in adult patients and five studies related to children.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

A deeper understanding of nurses' decisions to assess (or not assess) specific vital signs, analysis of the value or importance nurses place (or not) on specific vital sign parameters is warranted. The influence of patient characteristics (such as age) or the clinical practice setting, and the impact of nurses' workflows of vital sign assessment warrants further investigation.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.

Development of a supportive care framework for breast cancer survivor's unmet needs: A modified Delphi study

Abstract

Aim

To establish a supportive care framework for addressing unmet needs among breast cancer survivors, providing practical guidance for healthcare providers to assess and manage these needs, ultimately enhancing the health outcomes and quality of life of breast cancer survivors.

Design

We conducted a two-round Delphi survey to gather expert opinions regarding the unmet needs supportive care framework for breast cancer survivors.

Methods

Initial framework identification and inquiry questionnaire creation was achieved via literature search and expert group discussions, which included 15 experts from nursing practice, clinical medicine, nursing management and nursing education was conducted using a Delphi survey. To establish consensus, a two-round Delphi poll was done, using criteria based on the mean (≥4.0), coefficient of variation (CV < 0.25) and percentage for entire score (≥20%).

Results

Experts reached a consensus, leading to six care modules, and 28 care entries: Tumour Detection Support (three care entries), Management of Complications of Antitumor Therapy (seven care entries), Healthy Lifestyle Management (five care entries), Sexual and Fertility Support (four care entries), Psychosocial Support (four care entries) and Resource and Linkage Support (five care entries).

Conclusion

To address breast cancer survivors' unmet needs, a supportive framework was developed to actively enhance their health outcomes. However, further refinement and feasibility testing using mobile devices or artificial intelligence are required.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

This pioneering framework prioritises addressing unmet needs and equips healthcare providers to assess and manage these needs effectively, facilitating the implementation of programs aimed at improving the well-being of breast cancer survivors.

Reporting Method

This study was guided by a modified guideline for the Conducting and Reporting of Delphi Studies (CREDES) (Palliative Medicine, 31(8), 684, 2017).

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.

Trial and protocol registration

The Delphi study methodology does not require registration.

Enhancing blood pressure management protocol implementation in patients with acute intracerebral haemorrhage through a nursing‐led approach: A retrospective cohort study

Abstract

Aim

To evaluate the impact of nurse care changes in implementing a blood pressure management protocol on achieving rapid, intensive and sustained blood pressure reduction in acute intracerebral haemorrhage patients.

Design

Retrospective cohort study of prospectively collected data over 6 years.

Methods

Intracerebral haemorrhage patients within 6 h and systolic blood pressure ≥ 150 mmHg followed a rapid (starting treatment at computed tomography suite with a target achievement goal of ≤60 min), intensive (target systolic blood pressure < 140 mmHg) and sustained (maintaining target stability for 24 h) blood pressure management plan. We differentiated six periods: P1, stroke nurse at computed tomography suite (baseline period); P2, antihypertensive titration by stroke nurse; P3, retraining by neurologists; P4, integration of a stroke advanced practice nurse; P5, after COVID-19 impact; and P6, retraining by stroke advanced practice nurse. Outcomes included first-hour target achievement (primary outcome), tomography-to-treatment and treatment-to-target times, first-hour maximum dose of antihypertensive treatment and 6-h and 24-h systolic blood pressure variability.

Results

Compared to P1, antihypertensive titration by stroke nurses (P2) reduced treatment-to-target time and increased the rate of first-hour target achievement, retraining of stroke nurses by neurologists (P3) maintained a higher rate of first-hour target achievement and the integration of a stroke advanced practice nurse (P4) reduced both 6-h and 24-h systolic blood pressure variability. However, 6-h systolic blood pressure variability increased from P4 to P5 following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, compared to P1, retraining of stroke nurses by stroke advanced practice nurse (P6) reduced tomography-to-treatment time and increased the first-hour maximum dose of antihypertensive treatment.

Conclusion

Changes in nursing care and continuous education can significantly enhance the time metrics and blood pressure outcomes in acute intracerebral haemorrhage patients.

Reporting Method

STROBE guidelines.

Patient and Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.

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