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Anteayer Journal of Advanced Nursing

Status quo and influencing factors of multiprofessional and multidisciplinary teamwork for early mobilization in mechanically ventilated patients in ICUs: A multi‐centre survey study

Abstract

Aim

To understand the status quo of multiprofessional and multidisciplinary collaboration for early mobilization of mechanically ventilated patients in Chinese ICUs and identify any factors that may influence this practice.

Design

A multi-centre cross-sectional survey.

Methods

From October to November 2022, the convenience sampling method was used to select ICU multiprofessional and multidisciplinary early mobility members (including physicians, nurses and physiotherapists) from 27 tertiary general hospitals in 14 provinces, cities and autonomous regions of China. They were asked to complete an author-developed questionnaire on the status of collaboration and the Assessment of Inter-professional Team Collaboration Scale. A multiple linear regression model was used to analyse the factors associated with the level of collaboration.

Results

Physicians, nurses and physiotherapists mostly suffered from the lack of normative protocols, unclear division of responsibilities and unclear multiprofessional and multidisciplinary teams when using a collaborative approach to early activities. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the number of ICU patients managed, the existence of norms and processes, the attitude of colleagues around them, the establishment of a team, communication methods and activity leaders were significant influences on the level of collaboration among members of the multiprofessional and multidisciplinary early activities.

Conclusion

The collaboration of multiprofessional and multidisciplinary early activity members for mechanically ventilated patients in the ICU remains unclear, and the collaboration strategy needs to be constructed and improved, taking into account China's human resources and each region's economic development level.

Impact

This study investigates the collaboration status of multiprofessional and multidisciplinary activity members from the perspective of teamwork, analyses the reasons affecting the level of collaboration and helps to develop better teamwork strategies to facilitate the implementation of early activities.

Patient or Public Contribution

The participants in this study were multiprofessional and multidisciplinary medical staff who performed early activities for ICU patients.

Predictors of fall protection motivation among older adults in rural communities in a middle‐income country: A cross‐sectional study using the Protection Motivation Theory

Abstract

Aims

To evaluate factors associated with fall protection motivation to engage in fall preventive behaviour among rural community-dwelling older adults aged 55 and above using the protection motivation theory scale.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Methods

The study was conducted in a healthcare clinic in Malaysia, using multistage random sampling from November 2021 to January 2022. Three hundred seventy-five older adults aged 55 and older were included in the final analysis. There were 31 items in the final PMT scale. The analysis was performed within the whole population and grouped into ‘faller’ and ‘non-faller’, employing IBM SPSS version 26.0 for descriptive, independent t-test, chi-square, bivariate correlation and linear regressions.

Results

A total of 375 older participants were included in the study. Fallers (n = 82) and non-fallers (n = 293) show statistically significant differences in the characteristics of ethnicity, assistive device users, self-rating of intention and participation in previous fall prevention programmes. The multiple linear regression model revealed fear, coping appraisal and an interaction effect of fear with coping appraisal predicting fall protection motivation among older adults in rural communities.

Conclusion

Findings from this study demonstrated that coping appraisal and fear predict the protection motivation of older adults in rural communities. Older adults without a history of falls and attaining higher education had better responses in coping appraisal, contributing to a reduction in perceived rewards and improving protection motivation. Conversely, older adults from lower education backgrounds tend to have higher non-preventive behaviours, leading to a decline in fall protection motivation.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

These results contribute important information to nurses working with older adults with inadequate health literacy in rural communities, especially when planning and designing fall prevention interventions. The findings would benefit all nurses, healthcare providers, researchers and academicians who provide care for older adults.

Patient or Public Contribution

Participants were briefed about the study, and their consent was obtained. They were only required to answer the questionnaire through interviews. Older individuals aged fifty-five and above in rural communities at the healthcare clinic who could read, write or understand Malay or English were included. Those who were suffering from mental health problems and refused to participate in the study were excluded from the study. Their personal information remained classified and not recorded in the database during the data entry or analysis.

Development and validation of machine learning models to predict frailty risk for elderly

Abstract

Aims

Early identification and intervention of the frailty of the elderly will help lighten the burden of social medical care and improve the quality of life of the elderly. Therefore, we used machine learning (ML) algorithm to develop models to predict frailty risk in the elderly.

Design

A prospective cohort study.

Methods

We collected data on 6997 elderly people from Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Study wave 6–7 surveys (2011–2012, 2014). After the baseline survey in 1998 (wave 1), the project conducted follow-up surveys (wave 2–8) in 2000–2018. The osteoporotic fractures index was used to assess frailty. Four ML algorithms (random forest [RF], support vector machine, XGBoost and logistic regression [LR]) were used to develop models to identify the risk factors of frailty and predict the risk of frailty. Different ML models were used for the prediction of frailty risk in the elderly and frailty risk was trained on a cohort of 4385 elderly people with frailty (split into a training cohort [75%] and internal validation cohort [25%]). The best-performing model for each study outcome was tested in an external validation cohort of 6997 elderly people with frailty pooled from the surveys (wave 6–7). Model performance was assessed by receiver operating curve and F2-score.

Results

Among the four ML models, the F2-score values were similar (0.91 vs. 0.91 vs. 0.88 vs. 0.90), and the area under the curve (AUC) values of RF model was the highest (0.75), followed by LR model (0.74). In the final two models, the AUC values of RF and LR model were similar (0.77 vs. 0.76) and their accuracy was identical (87.4% vs. 87.4%).

Conclusion

Our study developed a preliminary prediction model based on two different ML approaches to help predict frailty risk in the elderly.

Impact

The presented models from this study can be used to inform healthcare providers to predict the frailty probability among older adults and maybe help guide the development of effective frailty risk management interventions.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Detecting frailty at an early stage and implementing timely targeted interventions may help to improve the allocation of health care resources and to reduce frailty-related burden. Identifying risk factors for frailty could be beneficial to provide tailored and personalized care intervention for older adults to more accurately prevent or improve their frail conditions so as to improve their quality of life.

Reporting Method

The study has adhered to STROBE guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Nurse leaders' interpersonal communication competence: A mixed‐method systematic review

Abstract

Aim(s)

To identify and synthesize evidence available on nurse leaders' interpersonal communication competence.

Design

Systematic mixed-methods review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis checklist.

Methods

The data were collected following predefined inclusion criteria. Two authors independently performed the study selection using Covidence software. Three authors assessed the quality using Joanna Briggs' Institute's critical appraisal tool and the mixed-methods appraisal tool. The data-based convergent synthesis design and narrative synthesis were used.

Data Sources

CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus, Business Source Elite, Academic Search Premier, Communication & Mass Media Complete, PsycInfo, Web of Sciences, Medic and Finna.fi were searched and the screening of citations in relevant articles. The final searches were performed on 17 October 2022.

Results

A total of 26 studies—15 quantitative, 9 qualitative and 1 of both mixed-method and multi-method—met the inclusion criteria. The nurse leaders' interpersonal communication competences described in the extant literature were categorized into three themes: message competence, relational competence and task competence. There were considerable differences in the levels of competence, as some competences were considered basic communication skills, while others required more advanced level competences. Furthermore, three competence levels were identified: novice, competent and expert.

Conclusions

This study unravels a unique hierarchical description of communication skills across competence categories, supported by the assumption that communication skills are structured hierarchically. The studies reviewed herein had a narrow perception of nurse leaders' interpersonal communication competence and indicated a transmissional understanding of communication.

Impact

This is the first mixed-methods systematic review that describes and synthesizes the evidence on nurse leaders' communication competencies hierarchically and across competence levels. The study suggests that further research should focus on a broader and more analytical understanding of the cognitive and affective aspects of interpersonal communication competence.

PROSPERO ID

CRD42023385058.

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.

Development of a competency framework for advanced practice nurses: A co‐design process

Abstract

Aims

The aim of the study was to develop a comprehensive competency framework for advanced practice nurses in Belgium.

Design

A co-design development process was conducted.

Methods

This study consisted of two consecutive stages (November 2020–December 2021): (1) developing a competency framework for advanced practice nurses in Belgium by the research team, based on literature and (2) group discussions or interviews with and written feedback from key stakeholders. 11 group discussions and seven individual interviews were conducted with various stakeholder groups with a total of 117 participants.

Results

A comprehensive competency framework containing 31 key competencies and 120 enabling competencies was developed based on the Canadian Medical Education Directions for Specialists Competency Framework. These competencies were grouped into seven roles: clinical expert and therapist, organizer of quality care and leader in innovation, professional and clinical leader, collaborator, researcher, communicator and health promoter.

Conclusion

The developed competency framework has resemblance to other international frameworks. This framework emphasized the independent role of the advanced practice nurse and provided guidance in a clear task division and delegation to other professionals. It can provide a solid foundation for delivering high-quality, patient-centred care by advanced practice nurses in the years to come.

Implications for the profession

This competency framework can guide further development of advanced practice nursing education in Belgium and represents a starting point for future evaluation of its feasibility and usability in education and clinical practice. Advanced practice nurses and healthcare managers can also use the framework as an instrument for personal and professional development, performance appraisal, and further alignment of these function profiles in clinical practice. Finally, this framework can inform and guide policymakers towards legal recognition of advanced practice nursing in Belgium and inspire the development of advanced practice nursing profiles in countries where these profiles are still emerging.

Impact

What problem did the study address? The absence of a detailed competency framework for advanced practice nurses complicates legal recognition, role clarification and implementation in practice in Belgium. A rigorously developed competency framework could clarify which competencies to integrate in future advanced practice nursing education, mentorship programs and practice.

What were the main findings? The competency framework outlined seven roles for advanced practice nurses: clinical expert and therapist, organizer of quality care and leader in innovation, professional and clinical leader, collaborator, researcher, communicator, and health promoter. Differentiation from other expert nursing profiles and clinical autonomy of advanced practice nurses were pivotal.

Where and on whom will the research have impact? The comprehensive competency framework for advanced practice nurses and the collaborative methodology used can inspire other countries where these profiles are still emerging. The competency framework can be used as an instrument for role clarification, performance appraisals, continuous professional development, and professional (e-)portfolios. The competency framework can guide policymakers when establishing Belgian’s legal framework for advanced practice nurses.

Reporting method

The authors have adhered to CONFERD-HP: recommendations for reporting COmpeteNcy FramEwoRk Development in health professions.

Patient or public contribution

No patient or public contribution in the design of the study. A patient advisory panel commented on the developed competency framework.

Eating experiences in people living with dementia: A concept analysis using Rodgers's methodology

Abstract

Aims

To analyse the concept of eating experiences in people living with dementia.

Design

Rodgers' evolutionary method of concept analysis was used as a framework for the paper.

Data Sources

The literature was searched using electronic databases PubMed, Google Scholar, CINHAL, PsycInfo, Web of Science, Embase and Elsevier databases. These databases cover a variety of disciplines, including but not limited to nursing, medicine and occupational therapy. The relevant literature published from 1989 to April 2023 was thoroughly examined. Any quantitative or qualitative studies published in English focused on eating or dining experiences in people with dementia were included.

Review Methods

Rodgers' evolutionary method for concept analysis was used. The attributes, antecedents, consequences and case examples of the concept were identified.

Results

Twenty-two articles met the inclusion criteria, identifying key attributes of self-connection, the special journey of life and self-interpretation. Antecedents, as framed by the socio-ecological model, were categorized to represent intrapersonal (personal preferences, individual culture, mealtime routines), interpersonal (social interaction) and environmental (dining room environment, policies) factors. Consequences were divided into external (nutritional health, physical health and quality of life) and internal (personhood, autonomy and independence, dignity and feeling valued and mental well-being) domains.

Conclusion

A theoretical definition and conceptual model of eating experiences in people living with dementia was developed. The identified attributes, antecedents and consequences can be utilized in nursing education, research and intervention approaches.

Impact

This article allows nurses and other healthcare professionals to better understand people living with dementia through the relationship between eating and interpersonal, intrapersonal and environmental aspects to develop personalized interventions and care strategies to achieve an optimal quality of life.

Patient or Public Contribution

Not applicable.

Australian nursing students' experiences of workplace violence during clinical placement: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Aim

To identify the nature, degree and contributing factors of workplace violence (WPV) incidents experienced by Australian nursing students during clinical placement.

Design

Descriptive cross-sectional study.

Methods

Data were collected from 13 September to 25 November 2022. Eligible participants included all nursing students enrolled in nursing degrees at any Australian university who had completed at least one clinical placement. An adapted version of the WPV in the Health Sector Country Case Study survey was used.

Results

A total of 381 nursing students across eight states of Australia completed the survey. More than half of the students had experienced an episode of WPV; patients were the most frequent perpetrators. Personal factors of patients, staff and students, organizational factors and cultural norms within the workplace supported acts of WPV.

Conclusion

Student nurses (SNs) most often experience violence from patients during direct care. Patient encounters are the core component of clinical placement. Education providers have a responsibility to effectively prepare students to be able to identify escalating situations and manage potentially violent situations. Registered nurses who supervise students during clinical placement require support to balance their clinical role with student supervision.

Implications for The Profession

Experiencing WPV can negatively impact relationships between students, healthcare professionals and care recipients. This results in personal distress, decreased job satisfaction and potentially the decision to leave the nursing profession.

Impact

What already is known: SNs are exposed to WPV during clinical placement.

What this paper adds: More than half the SNs in this study experienced violence inclusive of physical, verbal, racial and sexual harassment. Patients were the predominant perpetrators.

Implications for practice/policy: Interventions at individual and systemic levels are required to mitigate WPV.

Reporting Method

This study is reported using the STROBE guidelines.

A concurrent mixed‐method study exploring the experiences of interprofessional collaboration among Canadian midwives and obstetricians

Abstract

Aim

This study explores the experiences of interprofessional collaboration of Canadian midwives and obstetricians from midwives' perspective.

Design

A concurrent mixed-methods approach that combined a small validation study and qualitative thematic analysis was used to provide evidence of the nature and importance of collaboration between Registered Midwives (RMs) and obstetricians.

Method

Eighteen RMs across Canada completed a demographic survey and the Midwifery-Obstetrician Collaboration (MOC) scale in 2023. The quantitative analyses were conducted to assess the reliability of the Midwifery-Obstetrician Collaboration (MOC) and accumulate preliminary evidence to support its validity. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 participants. After completing the interviews, themes were identified using thematic analysis.

Results

The primary themes identified were knowledge of midwifery scope affects collaboration, collaboration is necessary for effective patient care, midwife-physician collaboration is impacted by power differentials and hierarchies, and proposed methods to improve physician-midwife collaboration. Although a small sample size did not permit extensive statistical testing, the quantitative results supported the reliability of the MOC scale. In addition, a strong correlation between the MOC and the communication subscale of the Inter-Professional Collaboration (IPC) scale provided evidence of the MOC's concurrent validity as a measure of collaboration between midwives and physicians.

Conclusion

This study provides support for the Midwifery-Obstetrics Collaboration (MOC) Scale as an assessment tool to evaluate collaboration between midwives and OB/GYNs in obstetrics care. While the 18 RMs recruited for this study provided a fulsome analysis for the qualitative portion, a larger study is necessary to provide more extensive quantitative analysis to validate the MOC scale for continued use among RMs and OBs.

Implications

The implications of this study are to foster strong interprofessional relationships between midwives and OBs and to improve the health outcomes of pregnant women and newborns.

Reporting Method

The authors adhered to Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ).

A systematic review exploring healthcare professionals' perceptions of take‐home naloxone dispensing in acute care areas

Abstract

Aims

To explore healthcare professionals' perceptions and experiences of take-home naloxone initiatives in acute care settings to gain an understanding of issues facilitating or impeding dispensing.

Design

Systematic literature review.

Data Sources

Cochrane, MEDLINE and CINAHL were searched from 15/03/2021 to 18/03/2021, with a follow-up search performed via PubMed on 22/03/2021. The years 2011 to 2021 were included in the search.

Review Methods

A systematic literature review focused on qualitative studies and quantitative survey designs. Synthesis without meta-analysis was undertaken using a thematic analysis approach.

Results

Seven articles from the United States of America (5), Australia (1) and Canada (1) with 750 participants were included in the review. Results indicate ongoing stigma towards people who use drugs with preconceived moral concerns regarding take-home naloxone. There was confusion regarding roles and responsibilities in take-home naloxone dispensing and patient education. Similarly, there was a lack of clarity over logistical and financial issues.

Conclusion

Take-home naloxone is a vital harm reduction initiative. However, barriers exist that prevent the optimum implementation of these initiatives.

Impact

What is already known: Deaths due to opioid overdose are a global health concern, with take-home naloxone emerging as a key harm reduction scheme. Globally, less than 10% of people who use drugs have access to treatment initiatives, including take-home naloxone. An optimum point of distribution of take-home naloxone is post-acute hospital care.

What this paper adds: There is role confusion regarding responsibility for the provision of take-home naloxone and patient education. This is exacerbated by inconsistent provision of training and education for healthcare professionals. Logistical or financial concerns are common and moral issues are prevalent with some healthcare professionals questioning the ethics of providing take-home naloxone. Stigma towards people who use drugs remains evident in some acute care areas which may impact the use of this intervention.

Implications for practice/policy: Further primary research should examine what training and education methods are effective in improving the distribution of take-home naloxone in acute care. Education should focus on reduction of stigma towards people who use drugs to improve the distribution of take-home naloxone. Standardized care guidelines may ensure interventions are offered equally and take-home naloxone ‘champions’ could drive initiatives forward, with support from harm reduction specialists.

Reporting Method

This has adhered to the PRISMA reporting guidelines for systematic reviews.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

The impact of digital technology use on nurses' professional identity and relations of power: a literature review

Abstract

Aim

This study seeks to review how the use of digital technologies in clinical nursing affects nurses' professional identity and the relations of power within clinical environments.

Design

Literature review.

Data Sources

PubMed and CINAHL databases were searched in April 2023.

Methods

We screened 874 studies in English and German, of which 15 were included in our final synthesis reflecting the scientific discourse from 1992 until 2023.

Results

Our review revealed relevant effects of digital technologies on nurses' professional identity and power relations. Few studies cover outcomes relating to identity, such as moral agency or nurses' autonomy. Most studies describe negative impacts of technology on professional identity, for example, creating a barrier between nurses and patients leading to decreased empathetic interaction. Regarding power relations, technologically skilled nurses can yield power over colleagues and patients, while depending on technology. The investigation of these effects is underrepresented.

Conclusion

Our review presents insights into the relation between technology and nurses' professional identity and prevalent power relations. For future studies, dedicated and critical investigations of digital technologies' impact on the formation of professional identity in nursing are required.

Implications for the Profession

Nurses' professional identity may be altered by digital technologies used in clinical care. Nurses, who are aware of the potential effects of digitized work environments, can reflect on the relationship of technology and the nursing profession.

Impact

The use of digital technology might lead to a decrease in nurses' moral agency and competence to shape patient-centred care. Digital technologies seem to become an essential measure for nurses to wield power over patients and colleagues, whilst being a control mechanism. Our work encourages nurses to actively shape digital care.

Reporting Method

We adhere to the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis where applicable. EQUATOR reporting guidelines were not applicable for this type of review.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Nurses’ and midwives’ experiences of managing parental postnatal depression: A scoping review

Abstract

Aim

To describe the current state of the literature on nurses' and midwives' knowledge, perceptions and experiences of managing parental postnatal depression (PPND).

Design

The Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review method and the PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews guided the work.

Data Sources

A systematic search of PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and Scopus databases was conducted in January and February 2023.

Review Methods

Peer-reviewed primary research articles published in English between 2012 and 2023 that involved nurses or midwives managing PPND were included. Rayyan was used to screen titles, abstracts and full-text articles. A spreadsheet was used to organize extracted data and synthesize results.

Results

Twenty-nine articles met the inclusion criteria. Most study samples were of mothers, and few were from middle- and lower-income countries. Nurses and midwives lacked knowledge about PPND, yet they felt responsible for its management. Nurses and midwives faced significant organizational and systems-level challenges in managing PPND. However, nurses and midwives facilitated PPND care in collaboration with other healthcare providers.

Conclusion

The review highlights significant gaps in the nurses' and midwives' care of PPND. Educational programmes are necessary to increase nurse and midwife knowledge of PPND and strategies for its management, including facilitating collaboration across the healthcare system and eliminating organizational and systemic-related barriers. Additional focused research is needed on nurses' and midwives' knowledge, perception of and experience with PPND beyond mothers, such as with fathers, sexually and gender-minoritized parents and surrogate mothers. Finally, additional research is needed in middle- and lower-income countries where nurses and midwives may face a higher burden of and unique cultural considerations in managing PPND.

Impact

PPND can affect the parent's mental and physical health and relationship with their child. If left untreated, PPND can lead to long-term consequences, including child developmental delays, behavioural problems and difficulties with parental–child attachment.

Reporting Method

This scoping review adheres to PRISMA Extension for Scoping Review guidelines and the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review method.

Patient or Public Contribution

This research is a scoping review of published peer-reviewed studies.

Comparing didactic approaches for practical skills learning in Scandinavian nursing simulation centres: A qualitative comparative study

Abstract

Aim

To explore and compare the didactic approaches to practical skills learning at simulation centres in Scandinavian universities and university colleges.

Background

Academic simulation centres are an important arena for learning practical nursing skills which are essential to ensure competent performance regarding patient safety and quality of care. Knowledge of didactic approaches to enhance learning is essential in promoting the provision and retention of students' practical nursing skills. However, research on didactical approaches to practical nursing skills learning is lacking.

Design

A qualitative comparative design was used.

Methods

During November and December 2019, interviews were conducted with a total of 37 simulation centre directors or assistant directors, each of whom possessed in-depth knowledge of practical skills in teaching and learning. They represented bachelor nursing education in Denmark, Norway and Sweden. A qualitative deductive content analysis was conducted.

Results

The results revealed all five predetermined didactical components derived from the didactical relationship model. Twenty-two corresponding categories that described a variation in didactic approaches to practical skills learning in Scandinavian nursing simulation centres were identified. The didactical components of Learning process revealed mostly similarities, Setting mostly differences and Assessment showed only differences in didactic approaches.

Conclusion

Although various didactic approaches were described across the countries, no common approach was found. Nursing educational institutions are encouraged to cooperate in developing a shared understanding of how didactic approaches can enhance practical skills learning.

Implications for Profession and/or Patient Care

Cross-country comparisons of practical nursing skills learning in Scandinavian countries highlight the importance of educator awareness concerning the impact diverse didactic approaches may have on competent performance in nursing education. Competent performance is pivotal for ensuring patient safety and the provision of high-quality care.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.

Reporting Method

This study followed the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research reporting guidelines.

An innovative low‐cost breast pump‐hire program to enhance breastfeeding rates in a neonatal intensive care unit

Abstract

Aim

To evaluate the outcomes of a low-cost hospital-grade breast pump hire program for women experiencing financial hardship with infants in neonatal intensive care.

Design

A multi-method evaluation including data audits and surveys.

Methods

Twenty-four electric breast pumps were purchased and rented to mothers at a cost of $1/day. To be eligible, mothers needed to have given birth to an infant <32 weeks and/or <1500 g and self-identified as experiencing financial hardship. Data were collected by (1) a retrospective audit to evaluate infant feeding and clinical outcomes at hospital discharge; (2) prospective telephone surveys to evaluate women's satisfaction with the program; and (3) analysis of the breast pump register to determine any loss or damages.

Results

Twenty-four mothers of 26 infants participated in the program. More than half of the infants were exclusively breastmilk fed at hospital discharge, and more than three-quarters were fed a combination of breastmilk and formula. Women who intended to formula feed were supported to provide breastmilk to their infants in the first few weeks of life.

Most participants were highly satisfied with the program. Women reported that accessibility to a hospital-grade breast pump improved their ability to provide expressed breastmilk to their infants. Most participants were ‘extremely satisfied’ with the performance of the breast pump. One-quarter of the women reported that they would have exclusively formula-fed if they did not have access to the breast pump hire program. The audit of the equipment register showed no reported technical issues, loss or damages.

Conclusion

The findings suggested that the low-cost breast pump hire program supported equitable care, increasing women's ability to provide expressed breastmilk for their infants.

Impact

Providing access to low-cost hospital-grade breast pumps to mothers of vulnerable infants is likely to prevent poor infant clinical outcomes and improve women's care satisfaction.

Public or Patient Contribution

Nil.

National survey on understanding nursing academics' perspectives on digital health education

Abstract

Aim

This study explored the knowledge and confidence levels of nursing academics in teaching both the theories and practical skills of digital health in undergraduate nursing programs.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Methods

A structured online survey was distributed among nursing academics across Australian universities. The survey included two sections: (1) the participants' demographics and their nursing and digital health teaching experience; (2) likert scales asking the participants to rate their knowledge and confidence to teach the theories and practical skills of four main themes; digital health technologies, information exchange, quality and digital professionalism.

Results

One hundred and nineteen nursing academics completed part one, and 97 individuals completed part two of the survey. Only 6% (n = 5) of the participants reported having formal training in digital health. Digital health was mainly taught as a module (n = 57, 45.9%), and assessments of theory or practical application of digital health in the nursing curriculum were uncommon, with 79 (69.9%) responding that there was no digital health assessment in their entry to practice nursing programs. Among the four core digital health themes, the participants rated high on knowledge of digital professionalism (22.4% significant knowledge vs. 5.9% no knowledge) but low on information exchange (30% significant knowledge vs. 28.3% no knowledge). Statistically significant (p < .001) associations were found between different themes of digital health knowledge and the level of confidence in teaching its application. Nursing academics with more than 15 years of teaching experience had a significantly higher level of knowledge and confidence in teaching digital health content compared with those with fewer years of teaching experience.

Conclusion

There is a significant gap in nursing academics' knowledge and confidence to teach digital health theory and its application in nursing. Nursing academics need to upskill in digital health to prepare the future workforce to be capable in digitally enabled health care settings.

Implications for the Profession

Nursing academics have a limited level of digital knowledge and confidence in preparing future nurses to work in increasingly technology-driven health care environments. Addressing this competency gap and providing sufficient support for nursing academics in this regard is essential.

Impact

What problem did the study address? Level of knowledge and confidence among nursing academics to teach digital health in nursing practice. What were the main findings? There is a significant gap in nursing academics' knowledge and confidence to teach digital health theory and its application in nursing. Where and on whom will the research have an impact? Professional nursing education globally.

Reporting Method

The STROBE guideline was used to guide the reporting of the study.

Patient or Public Contribution

The call for participation from nursing academics across Australia provided an introductory statement about the project, its aim and scope, and the contact information of the principal researcher. A participant information sheet was shared with the call providing a detailed explanation of participation. Nursing academics across Australia participated in the survey through the link embedded in the participation invite.

COVID‐19 and beyond: A systematic review of adaptations to psychosocial support in oncology

Abstract

Aims

To understand the strategies used to continue providing psychosocial support to cancer patients during the pandemic, including outcomes and implications beyond the pandemic.

Design

A systematic review of original research.

Data Sources

ProQuest Health & Medicine, CINAHL Complete (via EBSCOhost), Scopus, and PubMed were searched for original work published between January 2020 and December 2022.

Methods

Abstract and title screening identified eligible articles for full-text review. Following a full-text review, data were extracted from eligible articles, and a risk of bias assessment was conducted. A synthesis without meta-analysis was performed.

Results

Thirty-four articles met the selection criteria. These articles provide evidence that systematic adaptations during the pandemic improved the assessment and screening of psychological needs and/or increased the number of clients accessing services. Additionally, while the pandemic was associated with decreased psychosocial well-being for cancer patients, five intervention studies reported improvements in psychosocial well-being. Barriers, strategies, and recommendations were described.

Conclusion

Adapting psychosocial support during a pandemic can be successful, achieved relatively quickly, and can increase the uptake of support for people experiencing cancer.

Implications for Patient Care

It is imperative that these adaptations continue beyond the pandemic to maximize adaptive psychosocial outcomes for a group vulnerable to ongoing mental health concerns.

Impact

While the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with increased psychosocial need for cancer patients, evidence in the review suggested that adaptations made to service delivery facilitated increased access for patients who may not previously have been able to access support. Additionally, improvements in psychosocial well-being were achieved. These findings are relevant for clinicians and decision-makers who fund and design psychosocial support services for cancer patients.

Reporting Method

The review was guided by PRISMA Guidelines and the SWiM Reporting Guideline.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

‘Either something's wrong, or I'm a terrible parent’: A systematic review of parent experiences of illness‐related interpretations for unsettled babies

Abstract

Aims

To explore parents' experiences of unsettled babies and medical labels.

Design

Qualitative systematic review, thematic synthesis and development of a conceptual model.

Review Methods

Systematic review and thematic synthesis of primary, qualitative research into parents' experiences of unsettled babies <12 months of age. ‘Unsettled’ was defined as perception of excessive crying with additional feature(s) such as vomiting, skin or stool problems. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist was used to assess trustworthiness.

Data Sources

Structured searches completed in CINAHL, Medline, Embase, PsychINFO and CochraneCT on 23 March 2022 and rerun on 14 April 2023.

Results

Ten eligible studies were included across eight countries contributing data from 103 mothers and 24 fathers. Two analytical themes and eight descriptive themes were developed.

Firstly, parents expressed fearing judgement, feeling guilty and out of control as a result of babies' unsettled symptoms and seeking strategies to construct an ‘Identity as a “Good Parent”’.

This desire for positive parenting identity underpinned the second analytical theme ‘Searching for an explanation’ which included seeking external (medical) causes for babies' unsettled behaviours.

Conclusion

Parents can become trapped in a cycle of ‘searching for an explanation’ for their baby's unsettled behaviours, experiencing considerable distress which is exacerbated by feelings of guilt and failure.

Impact and Implications for Patient Care

Insight gained from this review could inform interventions to support parents, reducing inaccurate medicalization.

Health visiting teams supporting parents with unsettled baby behaviour could focus on supporting a positive parenting identity by managing expectations, normalizing the continuum of infant behaviours, reducing feelings of guilt or uncertainty and helping parents regain a feeling of control.

Reporting Method

ENTREQ guidelines were adhered to in the reporting of this review.

Patient or Public Contribution

Parent input was crucial in the design phase; shaping the language used (e.g., ‘unsettled babies’) and in the analysis sense-checking findings.

A study to untangle the puzzle of urinary incontinence and frailty co‐occurrence among older adults: The roles of depression and activity engagement

Abstract

Aims

To explore the co-occurrence of urinary incontinence and frailty by testing the roles of depression and activity engagement guided by the mechanisms of common cause and interaction pathways.

Design

A secondary analysis of a 1-year three-wave panel data collected from older nursing home residents in China.

Methods

Changes in depression and activity engagement were regressed on urinary incontinence and frailty incidence underpinned by the common cause mechanism of chronic conditions co-occurrence, and these changes were also taken as mediators linking from frailty to urinary incontinence incidence supported by the interaction pathways' mechanism.

Results

A total of 348 older adults were included in this study, and 55.7% were women. The co-occurrence of urinary incontinence and frailty was found in 16.7% of the participants at baseline. Older adults with sole frailty at baseline had almost twice the rate of incident urinary incontinence (32.7%) compared with those without (16.7%) over a 1-year period. The subsample analyses showed that changes in depression and activity engagement failed to significantly predict the incidence of urinary incontinence and frailty. The mediating roles of these changes linking frailty to urinary incontinence incidence were also not statistically significant.

Conclusion

The co-occurrence of urinary incontinence and frailty is prevalent in older nursing home residents. Older adults with frailty at baseline are more likely to develop urinary incontinence a year later. The common cause and interaction pathways mechanisms for the co-occurrence of urinary incontinence and frailty were not verified with changes in depression and activity engagement.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The phenomenon of urinary incontinence and frailty co-occurrence should be given extreme emphasis. Although statistically significant findings on the roles of depression and activity engagement were not inferred, this study provides multiple possibilities for future studies to test and depict a clear picture of this co-occurrence.

Impact

What problem did the study address? This study was designed to test the roles of depression and activity engagement in predicting the incidence of urinary incontinence and frailty, and the mediating roles in linking frailty to urinary incontinence incidence. What were the main findings? Despite the methodological pitfalls in literature have been addressed, neither depression nor activity engagement would significantly predict the incidence of urinary incontinence and frailty in older adults. Their mediating roles in linking frailty to urinary incontinence incidence were also not significant. Where and on whom will the research have an impact? Our findings add important pieces of evidence to promote researchers‘ understanding and provide an important basis for untangling the puzzle of urinary incontinence and frailty co-occurrence.

Reporting Method

The report of this study followed the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) statement guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Mapping health promotion practices across key sectors and its intersectoral approach at the local level: Study protocol

Abstract

Aims

This study outlines a protocol aimed at identifying and mapping health promotion practices in need of development from the perspectives of key sectors responsible for it at the local level and from an intersectoral perspective across four Spanish regions.

Design

A complementary multi-method study combining survey methods and qualitative interviews will be adopted.

Methods

Purposive snowball sampling will be employed to select potentially rich informants from city councils, primary care centres, primary and secondary schools, and public health and civil society organizations in 12 municipalities sensitive to local health. Data on the degree of execution of health promotion activities, the level of intersectorality in their implementation, and their origins will be collected using PromoACTIVA questionnaires, an intersectoral typology model and an interview protocol. A parallel mixed analysis encompassing descriptive statistics and a ‘framework analysis’ will be performed.

Discussion

This study is expected to yield thorough and reliable insights into health promotion practices and omissions at the local level by focusing on key stakeholders, both individually and collaboratively. This information can enhance health promotion planning and improve its effectiveness, efficiency and contextual relevance. The development and testing of a methodology for the integration and interpretation of these data will ensure sustainable capacity building.

Impact

Managers and practitioners interested in health promotion planning in the researched settings can benefit from a comprehensive map of the current state of their practices and insights into the starting points of collaboration. In addition, planners from other local settings will gain access to tools and methodologies to replicate and expand these maps to their own contexts.

Stakeholder Engagement

Engaging key stakeholders with experience working in or with primary care centres, public health organizations, primary and secondary schools, civil society organizations, and city councils was vital to ensure the study's relevance and feasibility.

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