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Anteayer Journal of Advanced Nursing

Nurses' perspectives on shared decision‐making in the daily care of hospitalized patients with dementia: An exploratory qualitative study

Abstract

Aim

Gain insight into the process of shared decision-making (SDM) in daily hospital care for patients with dementia from nurses' perspectives.

Design

Explorative qualitative design.

Methods

In-depth digital interviews were conducted with 14 registered nurses between June and November 2022. A phenomenological approach was applied using Colaizzi's seven-step method.

Results

Five themes were identified in the data: (1) SDM in daily care: How shared decision-making is applied; (2) Nurses' perceptions and competence: How nurses perceive and manage SDM; (3) Nurses' roles and advocacy: The evolving roles of nurses and their advocacy efforts, (4) Recognition of dementia and its impact: How nurses recognize and manage dementia; and (5) Interventions to support SDM: Strategies and interventions to facilitate SDM.

Conclusion

This study highlights the complexity of SDM in patients with dementia. It demonstrates the importance of the involvement of relatives, omission of patient goals in discussions and perceived deficiencies of nurses. The early identification of dementia, evaluation of nuanced capacity and targeted communication are essential. Further research and enhanced training are required to improve care in this context.

Impact

Potential areas for further research on SDM in nurses involving patients with dementia include investigating the effects of integrating goal discussions into SDM training for nurses, overcoming barriers to SDM competence, and challenging the idea that SDM is solely the responsibility of physicians. These findings highlight the need for policies that encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, address misconceptions and recommend training programmes that focus on applying SDM to the daily care of patients with dementia, thereby improving the overall quality of patient care.

Reporting Method

The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist was used for reporting.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Transforming outcome expectations into retention among hospital nurses: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Aim

To examine the main effects and interaction effects of outcome expectations (e.g., anticipated satisfactory salary and benefits), nurse identity (a sense of membership in the nursing profession), and information-access efficiency of the electronic medical record system (how the system enables nurses to quickly retrieve the needed information) on nurses' retention.

Design

This study uses a cross-sectional survey and adopts proportionate random sampling to recruit a representative sample of nurses of a medical centre in Taiwan.

Methods

This study successfully obtained completed questionnaires from 430 nurses during December 2021 to January 2022. Data are analysed by using hierarchical regressions.

Results

Positive outcome expectations and identification as a member in the nursing profession are associated with retention. Information-access efficiency strengthens the link between outcome expectations and retention, while nurse identity weakens this link.

Conclusion

Outcome expectations can help retain nurses, particularly those who perceive high levels of information-access efficiency and possess weak nurse identity. That is, outcome expectations have a complementary role with nurse identity in retaining nurses.

Implications for the Profession

Nurse managers should devise means to build positive outcome expectations for nurses. In addition, either strengthening nurses' identification with the nursing profession or improving the information-access efficiency of the electronic medical system may also help retain nurses.

Impact

This study examined how to transform outcome expectation to nurse retention, offering nurse managers to devise new means to retain nurses.

Reporting Method

STROBE statement was chosen as EQUATOR checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Youth, caregiver and healthcare professional perspectives on planning the implementation of a trauma‐informed care programme: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aims

To explore youth, caregiver and staff perspectives on their vision of trauma-informed care, and to identify and understand potential considerations for the implementation of a trauma-informed care programme in an inpatient mental health unit within a paediatric hospital.

Design and Methods

We applied the Interpretive Description approach, guided by complexity theory and the Implementation Roadmap, and used Applied Thematic Analysis methods.

Findings

Twenty-five individuals participated in individual or group interviews between March and June 2022, including 21 healthcare professionals, 3 youth and 1 caregiver. We identified two overarching themes. The first theme, ‘Understanding and addressing the underlying reasons for distress’, related to participants’ understanding and vision of TIC in the current setting comprising: (a) ‘Participants’ understanding of TIC’; (b) ‘Trauma screening and trauma processing within TIC’; (c) ‘Taking “a more individualized approach”’; (d) ‘Unit programming’; and (e) “Connecting to the community”. The second theme, ‘Factors that support or limit successful TIC implementation’ comprises: (a) ‘The need for a broad “cultural shift”’; (b) ‘The physical environment on the unit’; and (c) ‘Factors that may limit successful implementation’.

Conclusion

We identified five key domains to consider within trauma-informed care implementation: (a) the centrality of engagement with youth, caregivers and staff in trauma-informed care delivery and implementation, (b) trauma-informed care core programme components, (c) factors that may support or limit success in implementing trauma-informed care within the mental health unit and (d) hospital-wide and (e) the importance of intersectoral collaboration (partnering with external organizations and sectors).

Impact

When implementing TIC, there is an ongoing need to increase clarity regarding TIC interventions and implementation initiatives. Youth, caregiver and healthcare professional participants shared considerations important for planning the delivery and implementation of trauma-informed care in their setting. We identified five key domains to consider within trauma-informed care implementation: (a) the centrality of relational engagement, (b) trauma-informed care programme components, (c) factors that may support or limit successful implementation of trauma-informed care within the mental health unit and (d) hospital-wide and (e) the importance of intersectoral collaboration. Organizations wishing to implement trauma-informed care should consider ongoing engagement with all relevant knowledge user groups throughout the process.

Reporting Method

Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR).

Patient or Public Contribution

The local hospital research institute's Patient and Family Advisory Committee reviewed the draft study methods and provided feedback.

Sense of coherence moderates job demand‐resources and impact on burnout among nurses and midwives in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic: A cross‐sectional survey

Abstract

Aim

This study aimed to test the propositions using the job demands-resources (JD-R) model for main/moderation/mediation effects of a sense of coherence and practice environment support on mental well-being (anxiety, depression and burnout) outcomes in nurses and midwives in Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

Cross-sectional quantitative survey.

Data Sources

The study was a cross-sectional design using self-report questionnaires reported as per the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology Guidelines. Following human research ethics approval (2020.ETH.00121) participants were recruited to take part in an online anonymous survey using self-report instruments to test the JD-R model in Australia.

Results

156 participant nurses and midwives experienced anxiety, depression and emotional burnout during COVID-19. While a considerable proportion of participants indicated high levels of emotional exhaustion, their responses showed low levels of depersonalization (detached response to other people) and high levels of personal accomplishment (high levels of work performance and competence). A sense of coherence was a significant protective factor for mental health well-being for the participants, which is to say, high levels of sense of coherence were predictive of lower levels of anxiety, depression and burnout in this study sample.

Conclusion

It is evident that both nursing and midwifery professions require psychosocial support to preserve their health both in the short and long term. Ensuring individualized tailored support will require a layered response within organizations aimed at individual self-care and collegial peer support.

Patient or Public Contribution

There was no patient or public contribution in this study, as the focus was on nurses and midwives.

Psychosocial impacts of being nil‐by‐mouth as an adult: A scoping review

Abstract

Aim

To map existing evidence and identify gaps in the literature concerning psychosocial impacts of being nil by mouth (NBM) as an adult.

Design

A scoping review of the literature was undertaken using JBI guidance. A protocol was registered on the Open Science Framework (osf.io/43g9y). Reporting was guided by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR).

Methods

A comprehensive search of six databases (CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, SCOPUS and Web of Science) was performed for studies published up to February 2023, with no restriction to study type. A scope of the grey literature was also undertaken. Two authors independently assessed eligibility and extracted data. Descriptive statistical analysis and narrative synthesis were used, and patient and public involvement included in funding discussions.

Results

A total of 23 papers were included in the review, consisting of 14 primary studies (7 qualitative and 7 quantitative) and 9 grey literature. Both global psychological distress and distress specific to being NBM (thirst, missing food and drink) were reported. Caregivers also experience distress from their family member being NBM. Furthermore, social impacts were reported for both patient and caregiver, primarily social isolation and subsequent low mood.

Conclusion

Furthermore, research is needed to understand the prevalence of this population, how best to measure psychosocial impacts and to explore whether (and how) psychosocial impacts change over time. Advancement in this area would enable better service development to optimize care for this patient group.

What is known about this topic?

Eating and drinking provides more than nutrition and hydration. A wide range of conditions can lead to recommendations for no longer eating and drinking (nil by mouth). Being nil by mouth (NBM) for short periods such as pre-operative fasting causes distress; however, little is understood about impact on longer-term abstinence from eating and drinking.

What this paper adds?

Psychosocial consequences of being nil by mouth (NBM)have been investigated by both quantitative and qualitative studies. Being NBM impacts both patients and caregivers in various psychosocial aspects, including distress and social isolation. Several gaps remain, however, regarding ways to measure psychosocial impact of being NBM.

Analyzing the concept of toxic positivity for nursing: A dimensional analysis approach

Abstract

Aim

To analyze toxic positivity and its relevance to nursing.

Design

Concept analysis using Schatzman's dimensional analysis approach.

Data Sources

Two searches were conducted using Google Scholar, JSTOR, ProQuest and CINAHL (1990–2023). Keywords included “toxic positivity” (Phase 1) and “emotional suppression,” “unrealistic optimism”; “disingenuous happiness,” “forced gratitude” and “logical fallacy” (Phase 2). Retained sources (1) were in English (Phases 1 and 2); (2) used ‘toxic positivity’ as a construct reflecting the purpose of analysis (Phase 1); and (3) demonstrated relevance towards analytical findings (Phase 2). Total analytic sources were 35.

Methods

The analytic phase, identification, elucidated conceptual dimensions and contexts. The analytic phase, logistics, examined relationships among dimensions and contexts through an iterative process resulting in a dimensional matrix/conceptual model.

Results

Salient dimension is Emotional Suppression with two sub-dimensions, Logical Fallacy and Forced Gratitude. Other dimensions include Unrealistic Optimism and Disingenuous Happiness. Contexts include intra- and post-paradigmatic societal shifts and intra- and post-traumatic experiences. Analysis reveals toxic positivity as an exchange between a giver and receiver with the receiver experiencing negative outcomes.

Conclusion

The concept appears consistent in its application and use across contexts and is emerging in nursing literature.

Implications for the Profession

Acknowledging toxic positivity in nursing may inform theoretical and future research related to improving nursing burnout, bolstering retention, and enhancing well-being. Nurses across work environments may encounter toxic positivity. Leaders should consider policy adoption and inclusion of trauma-informed practices.

Impact

Nursing workforce issues require deeper examination of potential contributing factors. Findings suggest toxic positivity may be encountered in work environments impacting nursing at individual and system levels.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Factors associated with dietary behaviour change support in patients: A qualitative study among community nurses

Abstract

Aim

To explore which factors, influencing dietary behaviour change support among patients by Dutch community nurses (CNs; nurses), are key focal points in training programmes.

Background

Nurses have an important role in counselling patients towards healthier dietary behaviour to prevent or delay long-term complications from chronic lifestyle-related diseases. Most nurses do not incorporate dietary behaviour change support in their routines to the fullest potential.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

Data were collected in the Netherlands in 2018–2019 via semi-structured face-to-face interviews with 18 nurses. Interview guide themes were informed by the COM-B model, using validated descriptions in Dutch. Data were recorded, transcribed and analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Factors that affected dietary behaviour change support were linked to (1) the nurse (role identity, dietary knowledge and competences such as methodical approach, behaviour change techniques and communication techniques), (2) nurse–patient encounter (building a relationship with a patient, supporting patient autonomy and tailoring the approach) and (3) cooperation and organizational context.

Conclusion

It is of utmost importance to pay attention to nurses' role identity regarding dietary behaviour change support, as this underlies professional behaviour. This should be accompanied by improving competences on dietary behaviour change support. Focus on competences regarding the application of behaviour change technique is crucial. Furthermore, having a relationship of trust with a patient was important for discussing sensitive topics such as diet.

Impact

The promotion of a healthy diet provides opportunities to contribute to patient autonomy and self-management. Well-fitted training offers for (senior) nurses will lead to improved professional practice of nurses, leading to healthier dietary behaviour of patients.

Patient or Public Contribution

A nurse provided feedback on the interview guide.

The EMeRGE theory of emerging adult‐aged women's sexual and reproductive health self‐management: A grounded theory study

Abstract

Aims

To explore how emerging adult-aged women self-manage their sexual and reproductive health and to generate a grounded theory of these self-management processes.

Design

Grounded theory methods using a constructivist approach.

Methods

Between September 2019 and September 2020, 18‑ to 25-years-old women (n = 13) were recruited from a 4-year university, a 2-year community college, and neighbourhoods surrounding the institutions of higher education. Individual interviews were transcribed verbatim and qualitatively analysed using a constant comparative method and inductive coding.

Results

The theory purports that core processes of sexual and reproductive health self-management used by the women in this study included both passive and (re)active processes. These processes expanded upon and/or maintained the women's accessible sexual and reproductive health knowledge, behaviour and beliefs, defined as the sexual and reproductive health repertoire. The processes appeared to be cyclical and were often initiated by a catalysing event or catalyst and resulted in conversations with confidantes, or trusted individuals. A catalyst was either resolved or normalized by expanding or maintaining the sexual and reproductive health repertoire.

Conclusion

The resulting theory, EMeRGE Theory, offers insight into the complex and cyclical processes emerging adult-aged women use to simultaneously develop and adapt their foundational sexual and reproductive health knowledge, behaviours and beliefs.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

This explication of emerging adult-aged women's sexual and reproductive health self-management processes can be used by nurses and nurse researchers to better address this population's unique health needs.

Impact

The EMeRGE Theory provides valuable guidance for future exploratory and intervention research aimed at improving the health and well-being of emerging adult-aged women.

Reporting Method

The authors adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative studies (COREQ) in preparation of this publication.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Barriers and enablers to screening, management and referral of sleep disorders in patients attending cardiac rehabilitation: A qualitative descriptive study

Abstract

Aims

To examine healthcare professional's knowledge about assessment and management of sleep disorders for cardiac patients and to describe the barriers to screening and management in cardiac rehabilitation settings.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews.

Methods

In March 2022, a total of seven focus groups and two interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals who currently work in cardiac rehabilitation settings. Participants included 17 healthcare professionals who had undertaken cardiac rehabilitation training within the past 5 years. The study adheres to the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research guidelines. An inductive thematic analysis approach was utilized.

Results

Six themes and 20 sub-themes were identified. Non-validated approaches to identify sleep disorders (such as asking questions) were often used in preference to validated instruments. However, participants reported positive attitudes regarding screening tools provided they did not adversely affect the therapeutic relationship with patients and benefit to patients could be demonstrated. Participants indicated minimal training in sleep issues, and limited knowledge of professional guidelines and recommended that more patient educational materials are needed.

Conclusion

Introduction of screening for sleep disorders in cardiac rehabilitation settings requires consideration of resources, the therapeutic relationship with patients and the demonstrated clinical benefit of extra screening. Awareness and familiarity of professional guidelines may improve confidence for nurses in the management of sleep disorders for patients with cardiac illness.

Impacts

The findings from this study address healthcare professionals' concerns regarding introduction of screening for sleep disorders for patients with cardiovascular disease. The results indicate concern for therapeutic relationships and patient management and have implications for nursing in settings such as cardiac rehabilitation and post-cardiac event counselling.

Reporting Method

Adherence to COREQ guidelines was maintained.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution as this study explored health professionals' experiences only.

Roles, mutual expectations and needs for improvement in the care of residents with (a risk of) dehydration: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aim

Examining the perspectives of formal and informal caregivers and residents on roles, mutual expectations and needs for improvement in the care for residents with (a risk of) dehydration.

Design

Qualitative study.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews with 16 care professionals, three residents and three informal caregivers were conducted between October and November 2021. A thematic analysis was performed on the interviews.

Results

Three topic summaries contributed to a comprehensive view on the care for residents with (a risk of) dehydration: role content, mutual expectations and needs for improvement. Many overlapping activities were found among care professionals, informal caregivers and allied care staff. While nursing staff and informal caregivers are essential in observing changes in the health status of residents, and medical staff in diagnosing and treating dehydration, the role of residents remains limited. Conflicting expectations emerged regarding, for example, the level of involvement of the resident and communication. Barriers to multidisciplinary collaboration were highlighted, including little structural involvement of allied care staff, limited insight into each other's expertise and poor communication between formal and informal caregivers. Seven areas for improvement emerged: awareness, resident profile, knowledge and expertise, treatment, monitoring and tools, working conditions and multidisciplinary working.

Conclusion

In general, many formal and informal caregivers are involved in the care of residents with (a risk of) dehydration. They depend on each other's observations, information and expertise which requires an interprofessional approach with specific attention to adequate prevention. For this, educational interventions focused on hydration care should be a core element in professional development programs of nursing homes and vocational training of future care professionals.

Impact

The care for residents with (a risk of) dehydration has multiple points for improvement. To be able to adequately address dehydration, it is essential for formal and informal caregivers and residents to address these barriers in clinical practice.

Reporting Method

In writing this manuscript, the EQUATOR guidelines (reporting method SRQR) have been adhered to.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Bariatric surgery stigma from the perspective of patients: A scoping review

Abstract

Aims

To explore the experiences and consequences of bariatric surgery stigma from the perspective of bariatric surgery patients and to identify knowledge gaps in the literature.

Design

A scoping review.

Data Sources

Studies published between December 2002 and January 2022 were identified from the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO and MEDLINE.

Review Methods

We screened 3092 records and included 28 studies. Findings were grouped thematically using the health stigma discrimination framework.

Results

Patients experienced several types of stigmas, including perceived, experienced, anticipated and internalized stigma, related to undergoing bariatric surgery. Patients were confronted with negative comments and judgement from others when they disclosed their decision to have surgery or when they revealed that they had undergone surgery. These experiences led to conflicts in the decision-making process, such as delaying the choice for surgery, seeking surgery abroad or opting out. Patients who internalized stigma often reported feelings of shame and embarrassment for choosing surgery and felt the need for secrecy or selective disclosure. Stigma experiences were influenced by gender and differed between different subgroups of patients.

Conclusion

The stigma surrounding bariatric surgery has detrimental consequences for eligible individuals and bariatric surgery patients. However, the evidence from patients' perspective remains limited. More research into patient's experiences is needed to improve patient care and further educate healthcare professionals. In addition, to better understand the nature and implications of bariatric surgery stigma, future research should be founded on stigma theories and distinguish between the different types of stigmas.

Impact

This scoping review contributes to a better understanding of the implications the stigma surrounding bariatric surgery has for bariatric surgery patients before and after surgery. The knowledge generated by this review can inform improvements in the education and management of people living with obesity and bariatric surgery patients.

Reporting Method

The scoping review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.

Protocol Registration

A protocol was not registered for this scoping review.

Understanding the needs and preferences for cancer care among First Nations people: An integrative review

Abstract

Aim

This systematic review aimed to identify the needs and preferences for cancer care services among Australian First Nations people.

Design

Integrative review.

Data Sources

An integrative review was conducted. A wide range of search terms were used to increase the sensitivity and specificity of the searches in electronic databases. Methodological quality assessment, data extraction, was conducted independently by two reviewers, and a narrative synthesis was conducted.

Results

Forty-two studies were included. A total of 2965 Australian First Nations adults, both men and women of various ages across the lifespan, were represented; no First Nations children affected by cancer were represented in the studies. Three themes emerged which included: (1) discrimination, racism and trauma, resulting from colonization, directly impacted First National people's cancer care experience; (2) cultural ways of knowing, being and doing are fundamental to how First Nations people engage with cancer care services; and (3) First Nations people need culturally safe person-centred cancer care services that address practical needs.

Conclusion

Most participants represented in this review experienced discrimination, racism and trauma, resulting from colonization, which directly negatively impacted Aboriginal peoples' cancer care experience. While the Optimal Cancer Pathway (OCP) was launched in Australia several years ago, people with cancer may continue to experience distressing unmet care needs.

Patient or Public Contribution

Our team includes both First Nations people, non-First Nations researchers and healthcare professionals with expertise in cancer care. The researchers employed decolonizing restorative approaches to ensure voice, respect, accountability and reciprocity in this review work.

Implications for Nursing Practice

Members of the multidisciplinary team including nurses and policymakers should reflect on these findings, ensure that they have up-to-date cultural safety training and stand together with Indigenous and non-Indigenous cancer leaders to take proactive steps to stamp out and dismantle oppression in health, and safely implement the OCP.

Effectiveness of non‐surgical interventions to improve health and well‐being in women living with Mayer–Rokitansky–Kuster–Hauser syndrome: A systematic review

Abstract

Aim

The aim of this paper is to present the evidence on the effectiveness of non-surgical interventions to improve health and well-being in women living with Mayer–Rokitansky–Kuster–Hauser (MRKH) syndrome.

Design

Systematic review guided by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews checklist.

Data Sources

The search was conducted between June and September 2022 across the following databases: CINAHL, EMBASE, Medline, PsycINFO and Cochrane. Trial registries (clinicaltrials. gov, World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), Cochrane Controlled Trials Register-CCTR), Google scholar, dissertations, conference proceedings and reference lists of included studies were also searched. Corresponding authors, formal and informal MRKH groups were contacted to obtain any significant studies or reviews.

Review Methods

Eligible were only English-language empirical studies of any time period. The review followed narrative synthesis.

Results

Twenty-three studies were identified that fit the inclusion criteria which included 1540 MRKH syndrome affected women. Four studies were on psychological interventions (n = 85) and 19 studies (vaginal dilation therapy n = 897, coital dilation n = 57) focused on non-surgical vaginal dilation as a measure to vaginal agenesis in MRKH syndrome.

Conclusions

Clearly, vaginal dilation is a viable initial treatment option for women with MRKH syndrome. There is limited evidence that ‘coital dilation’ is an effective method of dilation for vaginal agenesis. The literature, however, supports the need for psychological intervention to improve health and well-being.

Impact

Women with MRKH syndrome who require dilation can receive guidance and support from their healthcare providers, particularly sexual and reproductive health nurses, clinical nurse specialists and gynaecologists. From the point of diagnosis, clinical psychologists should be involved. As much as feasible, family and partner support can be encouraged.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Legacy in paediatrics: A concept analysis

Abstract

Aim

To provide an analysis of legacy and legacy-oriented interventions in paediatric healthcare.

Design

Walker and Avant's method of concept analysis.

Methods

Using Walker and Avant's method, three defining attributes of the concept were determined, followed by antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents of legacy.

Results

In paediatrics, legacy is co-authored in relationships, has the capability to outlive the person or event it represents, and elicits the essence of a person or experience. Receiving legacy-oriented interventions are not a prerequisite for having a legacy, nor is death.

Conclusion

Engaging in purposeful, individualized legacy-oriented interventions can improve coping in paediatric patients, families, and providers. By understanding the concept of legacy, providers are better equipped to provide care honouring the unique personhood, relationships, and strengths of children and families in even the most dire circumstances.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Understanding the scope and purpose of legacy in paediatrics assists providers in improving patient- and family-centred outcomes by designing interventions that facilitate long-term coping in patients facing a loss of or significant change in health, normalcy, or life.

Impact

Legacy-oriented interventions are provided at most children's hospitals in the United States, yet no widespread consensus on foundation or scope has been determined. This concept analysis provides evidence-based guidelines for policy and practice in creating legacy for and with children, providing opportunities to improve quality of care for young patients and their families around the world.

Reporting Method

N/A.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Relationship between work‐related psychosocial factors and self‐leadership in advanced nurse practitioners: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between advanced nurse practitioners' self-leadership and commitment to the workplace, work engagement and influence at work.

Background

The concept of self-leadership is particularly suited to ANPs, who are required to take responsibility for their work roles. An optimum balance between the ANPs' psychosocial work environment and self-leadership may positively impact work ability in this group and can be compromised by interactions between and among these variables.

Design

A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted from July 2020 to August 2020 on 153 ANPs across a national health service.

Methods

The survey was distributed to respondents online. The revised self-leadership questionnaire was used to measure self-leadership, and three scales from the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire were used to measure commitment to the workplace, work engagement and influence at work. Multiple linear regression was used to examine the association between self-leadership and the psychosocial variables.

Results

ANPs with high levels of self-leadership reported high levels of work engagement and commitment to the workplace. No relationship was found between self-leadership and influence at work.

Conclusion

Improving self-leadership among ANPs by involving them in strategic leadership activities at an organizational level could be an effective strategy for optimizing the role and facilitating ANPs to contribute at an organizational level beyond the clinical interface. However, organizational support is required to ensure that ANPs practise to the full potential of their training and capability.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Impact

This study provided new evidence of a relationship between ANPs' self-leadership and psychosocial factors. This study found that ANPs with high levels of self-leadership reported high levels of work engagement and commitment to the workplace. Policymakers and organizational leaders can optimize the ANP role and facilitate ANPs to contribute strategically to improve care systems. This study identifies a relationship between ANPs' self-leadership and specific psychosocial variables.

Chinese family care partners of older adults in Canada have grit: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aim

To explain the process taken by Chinese family care partners of older adults in the Greater Toronto Area, Canada, to access health and social services in their communities. The research question was: What mechanisms and structures impact the agency of Chinese family care partners of older adults, in the process of assisting them to access health and social services?

Design

This qualitative study was informed by critical realism.

Methods

Chinese family care partners of older adults in the Greater Toronto Area, Canada, were interviewed from August 2020 to June 2021. Transcripts underwent thematic analysis.

Findings

Twenty-eight Chinese family care partners expressed a firm commitment to maintain caregiving conditions and to judiciously access health and social services. Their commitment was made up of three parts: (a) legislative and cultural norms of family, work, and society; (b) their perseverance to fill gaps with limited social and financial resources; (c) the quality of their relationship to, and illness trajectory of the older adults. The social structures created tension in how Chinese family care partners made decisions, negotiated resources, and ultimately monitored and coordinated timely access with older adults.

Conclusion

Participants' commitment and perseverance were conceptualized as “grit,” central to their agency to conform to legislative and cultural norms. Moreover, findings support grit's power to motivate and sustain family caregiving, in order for older adults to age in place as long as possible with finite resources.

Implications for the profession

This study highlights the importance of cultural awareness education for nurses, enabling continuity of care at a systems level and for a more resilient healthcare system.

Impact

Family care partners' grit may be crucial for nurses to harness when together, they face limited access to culturally appropriate health and social services in a system grounded in values of equity and inclusion, as in Canada.

Reporting method

When writing this manuscript, we adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines of the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ).

Patient or public involvement and engagement

No patient or public involvement.

Reliability and validity of the revised Rushton Moral Resilience Scale for healthcare workers

Abstract

Aim

To refine the Rushton Moral Resilience Scale (RMRS) by creating a more concise scale, improving the reliability, particularly of the personal integrity subscale and providing further evidence of validity.

Background

Healthcare workers are exposed to moral adversity in practice. When unable to preserve/restore their integrity, moral suffering ensues. Moral resilience is a resource that may mitigate negative consequences. To better understand mechanisms for doing so, a valid and reliable measurement tool is necessary.

Design

Cross-sectional survey.

Methods

Participants (N = 1297) had completed ≥1 items on the RMRS as part of the baseline survey of a larger longitudinal study. Item analysis, confirmatory factor analyses, reliability analyses (Cronbach's alpha), and correlations were used to establish reliability and validity of the revised RMRS.

Results

Item and confirmatory factor analysis were used to refine the RMRS from 21 to 16 items. The four-factor structure (responses to moral adversity, personal integrity, relational integrity and moral efficacy) demonstrated adequate fit in follow-up confirmatory analyses in the initial and hold-out sub-samples. All subscales and the total scale had adequate reliabilities (α ≥ 0.70). A higher-order factor analysis supports the computation of either subscale scores or a total scale score. Correlations of scores with stress, anxiety, depression and moral distress provide evidence of the scale's validity. Reliability of the personal integrity subscale improved.

Conclusion and Implications

The RMRS-16 demonstrates adequate reliability and validity, particularly the personal integrity subscale. Moral resilience is an important lever for reducing consequences when confronted with ethical challenges in practice. Improved reliability of the four subscales and having a shorter overall scale allow for targeted application and will facilitate further research and intervention development.

Patient/Public Contribution

Data came from a larger study of Canadian healthcare workers from multiple healthcare organizations who completed a survey about their experiences during COVID-19.

Stress and burnout in nursing home and égida workers during COVID‐19

Abstract

Aims

Finding out whether there are differences in the levels of stress and burnout between workers providing care to dependent adults and those caring for independent older adults would provide comparative information about two different models of care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, workers caring for older adults were subjected to maladaptive situations that produced stress and burnout.

Design

A cross-sectional survey design using the STROBE checklist.

Methods

A total of 900 nursing home and égidas workers were assessed for stress and burnout. Data were collected online from October 2020 to February 2021, when Puerto Rico was experiencing the peak of the third wave of COVID-19. MANOVAs were performed to study the interactions between the workplace and having had COVID, the workplace and the size of institution and the workplace and position held.

Data Sources

October 2020 to February 2021.

Results

All interactions were significant. Nursing homes showed higher levels of stress and burnout when workers had undergone COVID, when the size of the institution was larger and for technical staff other services; in égidas, having undergone COVID did not influence stress or burnout, which increased when the institution was smaller and for executive staff.

Conclusions

This study showed that the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic affected nursing home workers more significantly than those working in other types of residential models with independent older adults.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Applying preventive interventions aimed at reducing stress and burnout would facilitate the adaptation of workers caring for older adults and help to improve the quality of care.

Impact

This study analysed the impact of COVID-19 on the stress and burnout of workers providing services to older adults. Nursing home workers who have had COVID-19 have higher stress and burnout. The size of the institution has a different effect depending on whether older adults are dependent or independent. Workers in institutions dedicated to the care of the older adults.

Reporting Method

This study has adhered to the relevant EQUATOR guidelines: STROBE.

Patient or Public Contribution

During the different waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was difficult to establish direct contact with workers providing care to older adults; this reason made it necessary to apply online systems to obtain information. The workers appreciated the fact that the implications for stress and burnout of the situation experienced during this difficult process were investigated.

Neonatal intensive care nurses' accounts of care for mothers/families with substance‐exposed pregnancies: A critical discourse analysis

Abstract

Aims

To explore the effects of power dynamics and hospital organizational structure upon neonatal intensive care nurses' experiences caring for infants and families from a substance-exposed pregnancy (SEP).

Design

This secondary data analysis further investigated the results of a primary study after the original analysis suggested differences in work environments may impact relationship-building opportunities between nurses and mothers/families. Critical discourse analysis served as both the theoretical lens and analytic technique.

Method

Nine (9) nurses from the southeast region of the United States (U.S.) were interviewed in 2019. Fifty-one (51) stories of caregiving experiences were analysed with a focus on narratives related to organizational structure and care delivery.

Results

Study findings revealed nurses experienced challenges providing high-quality, family-centered care for patients in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) affected by substances during pregnancy. Nurses described the central challenge of workload, exacerbated by power imbalances and structural constraints within the hospital's organizational structure. Findings suggest workload issues may endorse stigma by inhibiting opportunities to build relationships. Nurses report manageable workloads can support healthcare teams and recipients of care.

Conclusion

The study suggests power imbalances between nurses, families and adjacent healthcare professionals can inhibit the delivery of high-quality care. Supporting healthcare teams and recipients of care while centering the role of organizational structure is critical. Questions emerged about workload demands impacting the potential production of stigma in clinical environments.

Impact

This study examines the intersection of nurses' care experiences and hospital organizational structure. It identifies how the unique needs of caring for infants and families from a SEP increase the complexity of power imbalances and organizational constraints to further increase workload demands. Findings have implications for global healthcare organization leaders who build and maintain the structural integrity of clinical environments and nurse leaders who advocate and guide clinical teams to provide high-quality care in stressful healthcare environments.

Reporting Method

EQUATOR guidelines were followed, using the COREQ checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

NICU nurses were interviewed about their care-provision experiences. Interviews were analysed in the primary study and the current analysis of secondary data.

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