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AnteayerJournal of Clinical Nursing

Shared decision making for patients with kidney failure to improve end‐of‐life care: Development of the DESIRE intervention

Abstract

Aim

To describe the development of a shared decision making intervention for planning end-of-life care for patients with kidney failure, their relatives and health professionals in kidney services.

Background

End-of-life care conversations within standard disease management consultations are challenging for patients with kidney failure, their relatives and health professionals. End-of-life care planning is about making difficult decisions in advance, which is why health professionals need shared decision making skills to be able to initiate end-of-life conversations. Health professionals report needing more skills to raise the issue of end-of-life care options within consultations and patients want to be able to discuss issues important to them about future care plans.

Methods

The development design was guided by the UK Medical Research Council's framework and a user-centred approach was applied. Four workshops were conducted with end users. The Template for Intervention Description and Replication for Population Health and Policy interventions was used to shape which questions needed to be answered through the workshops and to present the intervention. The International Patient Decision Aid Standards (IPDAS) criteria set the standards to be achieved.

Results

Areas considered significant to a shared decision making intervention were training of health professionals, conversations about end-of-life care, planning and evaluation of the decisions, reporting decisions in health records and repetition of consultation. The development process went through 14 iterations.

Conclusion

An intervention named DESIRE was developed that comprises: (1) a training programme for health professionals; (2) shared decision making conversations; and (3) a patient decision aid. The intervention met 30 out of 33 IPDAS criteria.

Implications for practice

DESIRE is intended to support shared decision making about planning end-of-life care among patients with kidney failure, their relatives and health professionals. The study provides important tools for the stakeholders engaged that can be used within different models of care.

Impact

What problem did the study address?

International guidelines recommend health professionals involve patients with kidney failure in making decisions about end-of-life care, but there is variation in how this is implemented within and across kidney services. Furthermore, patients, relatives and health professionals find it challenging to initiate conversations about end-of-life care.

What were the main findings?

The study resulted in the development of a complex intervention, called DESIRE, about shared decision making and planning end-of-life care for patients with kidney failure, their relatives and health professionals in kidney services, including a training programme for health professionals, shared decision making conversations and a patient decision aid.

Where and on whom will the research have an impact?

The research contributes a shared decision making intervention to patients in the later stage of kidney failure, their relatives and health professionals. We believe that the DESIRE intervention could be introduced during consultations with health professionals at an earlier stage of the patient's illness trajectory, as well as being applied to other chronic diseases.

Reporting Method

This intervention development research is reported according to the GUIDance for the rEporting of intervention Development (GUIDED) checklist and the DEVELOPTOOLS Reporting Checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients, relatives and health professionals have been involved throughout the research process as part of the research team and advisory board. For this study, the advisory board has particularly contributed to the development process of the DESIRE intervention by actively participating in the four workshops, in the iterations between the workshops and in the preparation of the manuscript.

Virtual reality‐based dementia educational programmes for formal and informal caregivers of people with dementia: A scoping review

Abstract

Aim

To map evidence of the existing virtual reality-based dementia educational programmes and the effects of these educational programmes on dementia formal and informal caregivers.

Design

A scoping review.

Methods

A comprehensive search of nine databases was conducted to find studies from the inception of the databases to October 2023. Two authors independently screened the titles and abstracts related to the eligibility criteria. Full texts of potentially relevant studies were read by one author and checked by a second. Data extraction and synthesis using NVivo 12 were undertaken by one author and checked by two other authors.

Results

Nineteen studies published between 2002 and 2022. The four randomised controlled studies and five qualitative studies were of moderate to good methodological quality. The 10 quasi-experimental studies were of weak to moderate quality. Fifteen virtual reality-based educational programmes had a positive influence on formal and informal caregivers, including improving caregivers' perceptions changing attitudes towards people with dementia, while the nursing competence of formal caregivers did not improve in short term. Educational programmes that covered dementia-related information and care strategies better improved the knowledge level of dementia formal and informal caregivers.

Conclusions

The qualitative and quantitative studies of moderate to good quality included in this study support the idea that virtual reality-based dementia educational programmes may be a safe and effective way and have potential benefits for improving knowledge, perceptions, attitudes and nursing competence.

Impact

This scoping review will provide an emerging teaching model for formal and informal caregivers of people with dementia and help them better understand the types and the influence of virtual reality-based dementia educational programmes.

Reporting Method

PRISMA-ScR.

No Patient or Public Contribution

Not required as this review in accordance with the aim to map existing literature from the dementia formal and informal caregivers' perspective.

Examining suicide risk in sexual and gender minority youth: A descriptive observational study on depressive symptoms, social support and self‐esteem

Abstract

Aim

To understand the factors that contribute to the risk of suicide among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual (sexual minorities) youth.

Background

The increase in the likelihood of suicide has made it an urgent issue in public health, particularly among young people, where it now ranks as the fourth leading cause of death. This issue becomes even more significant when focusing on sexual minorities.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed in targeted young individuals (15–29 years). Several variables were assessed, including suicide risk, self-esteem, presence and severity of depressive symptoms, perceived social support and self-reported levels of anxiety and depression.

Results

Statistically significant disparities were observed in suicide risk, presence of depressive symptoms and self-reported levels of anxiety and depression, all of which were more pronounced in sexual minority youth compared to heterosexual cisgender individuals. Likewise, statistically significant differences were noted concerning self-esteem and family support, both of which were lower in sexual minority youth.

Conclusion

This study has identified risk factors, such as anxiety, depression and limited social support, as well as protective factors, like higher self-esteem and self-concept. Understanding and addressing all these factors are essential in reducing the elevated rates of suicide among sexual minority youth. Consequently, evidence-based interventions such as Gender and Sexuality Alliances, which empower and create safe spaces for sexual minority youth, possess substantial potential for effectively addressing this issue.

Implications for the Profession

Given sexual minorities vulnerability, healthcare pros, especially nurses, must grasp suicide risk factors. They can help by educating, offering care, assessing risk and fighting stigma. This guarantees safety and access to mental health services for at-risk individuals from sexual minorities.

Reporting Method

The reporting follows the STROBE checklist.

Patient Contribution

People who were invited to participate voluntarily completed a range of questionnaires.

Depression and anxiety among nurses during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Longitudinal results over 2 years from the multicentre VOICE–EgePan study

Abstract

Aims

To examine symptoms of depression and generalised anxiety among nurses over 2 years during the pandemic and compare them to the general population.

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant increase in mental stress among the population worldwide. Nursing staff have been identified as being under remarkable strain.

Design

A multicentre prospective longitudinal study.

Methods

Symptoms of depression and generalised anxiety in 507 nurses were examined at four different time points (T1: April–July 2020, T2: November 2020–January 2021, T3: May–July 2021, T4: February–May 2022). Results were compared with values of the German general population, presence of gender-specific differences was analysed and frequencies of clinically relevant levels of depression and anxiety were determined.

Results

Throughout the study (T1–T4), a significant increase in depressive and anxiety symptoms was observed. At all four measurement time points, nurses showed significantly higher prevalence for depression and anxiety compared to the German general population. No significant gender differences were found. Frequencies for probable depression and generalised anxiety disorder among nurses were: 21.6% and 18.5% (T1), 31.4% and 29.2% (T2), 29.5% and 26.2% (T3), 33.7% and 26.4% (T4).

Conclusion

During the pandemic, symptoms of depression and generalised anxiety among nurses increased significantly and remained elevated. Their symptom levels were permanently higher than in the general population. These findings strongly suggest that the circumstances of the pandemic severely affected nurses´ mental health.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a great mental strain on caregivers. This study was able to demonstrate the significant increase in depression and anxiety among nurses during the pandemic. It highlights the urgent need for prevention, screening and support systems in hospitals.

Implications for the Profession

Supportive programmes and preventive services should be developed, not least to prevent the growing shortage of nurses in the health care systems.

Reporting Method

The study adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines. The STROBE checklist for cohort study was used as the reporting method.

Patient Contribution

Five hundred and seven nurses completed the questionnaire and provided data for analysis.

Trial and Protocol Registration

The study was registered with the German Clinical Trials Register (https://drks.de/search/en) under the following ID: DRKS00021268.

Individual and social system factors influencing evidence‐based practices among nurses in general hospitals: A cross‐sectional multi‐institutional study

Abstract

Aims and Objectives

To investigate evidence-based practices and examine the influence of individual and social system factors on evidence-based practices among nurses in general hospitals.

Background

Evidence-based practice is essential for improving healthcare quality. However, a challenge for nursing worldwide is nurses' limited use of evidence-based practices. It is crucial to determine the individual and social system factors affecting nurses' use of evidence-based practices.

Design

This study employs a multi-institutional cross-sectional design.

Methods

With a multistage random sampling method, 336 registered nurses were recruited from 17 general hospitals in the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. Data were collected through a seven-part questionnaire, including the Evidence-Based Practice Implementation Scale and individual and social system factors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression.

Results

Nurses in general hospitals perceived low levels of evidence-based practices. Individual factors, such as perceived barriers (p < .001), knowledge (p < .001) and attitudes (p = .001), were related to EBP as well as social system factors, including the work environment (p < .001) which influence nurses' practice, explaining 34% variance among nurses.

Conclusion

Nurses perceived the work environment as the most influencing factor related to evidence-based practices. Individual characteristics, including perceived knowledge, attitudes and barriers, were critical factors in performing evidence-based practices in Myanmar.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Nurse administrators and policymakers can develop strategies and interventions for improving knowledge, attitudes and work environment towards evidence-based practice. Minimizing the barriers to evidence-based practice will promote evidence-based practices in Myanmar general hospitals.

Impact

In addressing the individual and social system factors influencing the evidence-based practices of nurses, this study contributes to enhancing healthcare quality and outcomes.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the STROBE checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

There was no patient or public contribution.

‘Towards a conceptualization of nurses’ support of hospitalised patients' self‐management—A modified Delphi study’

Abstract

Aim

To determine patients', nurses' and researchers' opinions on the appropriateness and completeness of the proposed conceptualization of nurses' support of hospitalised patients' self-management.

Design

A modified Delphi study.

Methods

We conducted a two-round Delphi survey. The panel group consisted of patients, nurses and researchers. The conceptualization of nurses' support of hospitalised patients' self-management presented in the first Delphi round was based on previous research, including a scoping review of the literature. Data was analysed between both rounds and after the second round. Results are reported in accordance with the guidance on Conducting and Reporting Delphi Studies (CREDES).

Results

In the first round all activities of the proposed conceptualization were considered appropriate to support the patients' self-management. Panel members' comments led to the textual adjustment of 19 activities, the development of 15 new activities, and three general questions related to self-management support during hospitalisation. In the second round the modified and the newly added activities were also deemed appropriate. The clarification statements raised in the first Delphi round were accepted, although questions remained about the wording of the activities and about what is and what is not self-management support.

Conclusion

After textual adjustments and the addition of some activities, the proposed conceptualization of nurses' support in patients' self-management while hospitalised have been considered appropriate and complete. Nevertheless, questions about the scope of this concept still remains. The results provide a starting point for further discussion and the development of self-management programs aimed at the hospitalised patient.

Implication for the profession and/or patient care

The results can be considered as a starting point for practice to discuss the concept of nurses' support for hospitalised patients' self-management and develop, implement and research self-management programs specific for their patient population.

Reporting Method

Results are reported in accordance with the guidance on Conducting and Reporting Delphi Studies (CREDES).

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients were involved as expert panellist in this Delphi study.

Impact statement

What problem did the study address?

Self-management support during hospitalisation is understudied, which undermines the development of evidence-based interventions.

What were the main findings?

A panel, consisting of patients, nurses and researchers, agreed on the appropriateness of a conceptualization of nurses' support of inpatients' self-management, and identified some points for discussion, mainly related to the boundaries of the concept self-management.

Where and on whom will the research have an impact?

This study is crucial for generating conceptual understanding of how nurses support patients' self-management during hospitalisation. This is necessary for policy, clinical practice, education, and research on this topic.

Associations between nurse characteristics, institutional characteristics and perceived nurse knowledge and self‐efficacy of reporting suspected child abuse and neglect

Abstract

Aim

To determine the association between nurse and institutional characteristics and perceived professional nurse knowledge and self-efficacy of reporting child abuse and neglect.

Design

A sample of N = 166 nurses were recruited to respond to the Reporting of Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect (RSCAN) survey.

Methods

A multiple linear regression examined whether nurse characteristics and institutional characteristics were associated with the two RSCAN survey domain scores.

Results

Perceived knowledge of a workplace child abuse and neglect protocol was associated with the knowledge subscale. Education and child abuse and neglect expertise were significant predictors of the self-efficacy subscale. Nurses with a master's or higher degree and those who identified as being either forensic, paediatric or Emergency Department nurses, had less perceived institutional barriers to self-efficacy of reporting child abuse and neglect.

Conclusion

This study provides a preliminary insight into the institutional barriers and facilitators of nurses as child abuse and neglect mandated reporters.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

To encourage innovative education and collaborations to support nurses as fully informed child abuse and neglect mandated reporters.

Impact

This research identifies the gaps and facilitators of nurses as child abuse and neglect mandated reporters to inform healthcare professionals and academic institutions on the importance of nurse education and experience in nurse knowledge and self-efficacy in reporting suspected child abuse and neglect.

Reporting methods

The authors of this study have adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines: STROBE.

Patient or public contribution

There is no patient or public contribution as the study only looked at nurses.

Patient outcomes following medical emergency team review on general wards: Development of predictive models

Abstract

Aim

To develop and internally validate risk prediction models for subsequent clinical deterioration, unplanned ICU admission and death among ward patients following medical emergency team (MET) review.

Design

A retrospective cohort study of 1500 patients who remained on a general ward following MET review at an Australian quaternary hospital.

Method

Logistic regression was used to model (1) subsequent MET review within 48 h, (2) unplanned ICU admission within 48 h and (3) hospital mortality. Models included demographic, clinical and illness severity variables. Model performance was evaluated using discrimination and calibration with optimism-corrected bootstrapped estimates. Findings are reported using the TRIPOD guideline for multivariable prediction models for prognosis or diagnosis. There was no patient or public involvement in the development and conduct of this study.

Results

Within 48 h of index MET review, 8.3% (n = 125) of patients had a subsequent MET review, 7.2% (n = 108) had an unplanned ICU admission and in-hospital mortality was 16% (n = 240). From clinically preselected predictors, models retained age, sex, comorbidity, resuscitation limitation, acuity-dependency profile, MET activation triggers and whether the patient was within 24 h of hospital admission, ICU discharge or surgery. Models for subsequent MET review, unplanned ICU admission, and death had adequate accuracy in development and bootstrapped validation samples.

Conclusion

Patients requiring MET review demonstrate complex clinical characteristics and the majority remain on the ward after review for deterioration. A risk score could be used to identify patients at risk of poor outcomes after MET review and support general ward clinical decision-making.

Relevance to clinical practice

Our risk calculator estimates risk for patient outcomes following MET review using clinical data available at the bedside. Future validation and implementation could support evidence-informed team communication and patient placement decisions.

Perceptions of adult intensive care unit patients regarding nursing presence and their intensive care experiences: A descriptive‐correlational study

Abstract

Aims and Objectives

This study aims to determine the relationship between perceptions of nursing presence and intensive care experiences in adult intensive care unit patients'.

Background

Intensive care units (ICUs) are settings where patients have many negative emotions and experiences, which affect both treatment and post-discharge outcomes. The holistic presence of nurses may help patients turn their negative emotions and experiences into positive ones.

Design

A descriptive-correlational design was used and reported according to the STROBE checklist.

Methods

The sample consisted of 182 participants. Data were collected using a personal information form, the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), the Intensive Care Experience Scale (ICES), and the Presence of Nursing Scale (PONS).

Results

A strong positive correlation existed between total ICES and PONS scores (r = 0.889, p < 0.001). There was a strong positive correlation between PONS total score and ICES subscales (awareness of surroundings (r = 0.751, p < 0.001), frightening experiences (r = 0.770, p < 0.001), recall of experience (r = 0.774, p < 0.001), and satisfaction with care (r = 0.746, p < 0.001)). Males (β = −0.139, p < 0.05), and patients who were university and higher education graduate (β = 0.137, p < 0.05) had higher positive ICU experiences. It was also found length of ICU stay was correlated with ICU experiences and nursing presence.

Conclusions

The more positively the patients perceive nurses, the better ICU experiences they have. Gender and education level were found determinants of adult ICU patients' experiences. ICU length of stay predicted what kind of experience patients have and how much they feel the presence of nurses.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Nurses should make their presence felt completely and holistically by using their communication skills for patients have more positive intensive care experiences. Nurses should consider variables which affects patients' ICU experiences and nursing presence.

The experiences of gender and sexually diverse parents using support and services for their young children: An integrative review

Abstract

Aim

To address: What are the experiences of 2SLGBTQQIA+ parents using parenting supports and services to meet their children's early childhood development needs (<5 years of age)?

Design

Whittemore and Knafl's (2005) integrative review methodology.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched from 2000 to October 14, 2022 for empirical studies or reviews addressing the research question. The title and abstract of 12,158 articles were screened for inclusion in the review by two independent researchers; 175 of these articles underwent full-text review. Studies selected were critically appraised using a Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tool. Relevant key findings were extracted from each study and entered into N-VIVO-12. Thematic content analysis was employed and PRISMA guidelines were adhered to.

Results

A total of 18 articles (15 qualitative and three multi-method studies) met the inclusion criteria and were selected for the review. Seven themes were revealed from analysis of the studies: (1) 2SLGBTQQIA+ Status kept a secret; (2) Forced to come out; (3) Heteronormative messaging; (4) Feeling excluded; (5) Stigmatised; (6) Parents act as educators; and (7) Positive experiences.

Conclusion

This integrative review provides nurses with insight into the experiences of 2SLGBTQQIA+ parents using health care services for their young child.

Implications for the Profession

This article highlights what changes nurses need to make to their practice to ensure appropriate, inclusive care for clients of diverse sexual and gender identities and their families.

Impact

Health care providers, especially nurses, have an opportunity to improve the experiences of these families and positively impact their health and well-being. Additionally, there is a need for research with the 2SLGBTQQIA+ parent community and the use of rigorous methodological techniques, including clearly linking participants' gender and sexual identities with study findings, to improve our understanding of 2SLGBTQQIA+ parent experiences.

Patient or Public Contribution

Although there was no direct patient contribution to the work since it was an integrative review of the literature, indirectly patient contributions are incorporated from the original research results of studies incorporated into this review.

The effect of long‐term COVID‐19 on aetiological factors related to nocturia

Abstract

Aims and Objectives

This study was conducted to examine the possible aetiology of nocturia in patients with long-term COVID-19.

Background

Physical and neuropsychiatric symptoms, an increase in overactive bladder symptoms, especially from urinary system complaints, has been reported in patients with COVID-19, 10–14 weeks after the illness.

Design

A descriptive design.

Methods

The study consisted of 70 patients who had experienced COVID-19, had nocturia, and were followed in the State Hospital between April and July 2022. Data were collected using a patient information form, the ‘TANGO’ nocturia screening tool, and the Visual Analog Scale. This study was created in accordance with the STROBE Statement Checklist.

Results

When the nocturia effects of long-term COVID-19 were examined it was determined that the urinary tract was the ‘priority’ aetiological condition. It was observed that there was a significant difference between the aetiological factor groups in terms of the mean age of the patients and the number of nocturia (p < .05). According to post-hoc analysis, the mean age of patients with a dominant cardio-metabolic factor was found to be significantly younger (p < .05). In addition, when comparing the number of nocturia according to the aetiological factors of the patients, it was observed that the number of nocturia was significantly frequent in the patients with a dominant sleep factor (p < .05).

Conclusions

It was found that the urinary tract aetiological factor was dominant in patients with long-term COVID-19 and nocturia, patients with a dominant cardiovascular aetiological factor were younger, and that the number of nocturia was higher in patients with a dominant sleep factor.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Identification of the early signs and symptoms and underlying causes of nocturia in individuals with post-COVID-19 syndrome will enable nurses and health professionals to guide the early identification of different underlying problems, as well as the implementation of approaches to treat and eliminate nocturia.

Patient or Public Contribution

The patients contributed to the study by agreeing to participate in the evaluation of nocturia complaints after COVID-19 infection.

Exploring intensive care nurses' perception of simulation‐based learning: A systematic review and meta‐synthesis

Abstract

Aim(s)

To explore intensive care nurses' (ICN) perceptions of simulation-based learning (SBL).

Design

A systematic review and meta-synthesis.

Methods

The review followed the PRISMA guidelines for reporting a systematic review. A systematic search strategy was developed using a modified PICo framework. A comprehensive search was conducted in July 2023 in CINAHL, OVID Embase, Medline complete, Web of Science, ERIC and Scopus databases for articles published in English between 2013 and 2023. Data were extracted using the Joanna Briggs Institute QARI Data Extraction, with data synthesis guided by Braun and Clark's thematic analysis approach. Quality appraisal was assessed using the CASP tool.

Results

Eleven studies providing qualitative data were included for analysis. Analysis and meta-synthesis led to the construction of two themes: The learning experience and professional growth through collaboration.

Conclusion

The review highlights the balance needed in finding the appropriate simulation approach, with the right level of fidelity, conducted at appropriately regular intervals, incorporating the correct makeup of professional team members, conducted in the right environment and facilitated by a skilled facilitator, to ensure best outcomes and return on investment for ICN's education.

Implications for Practice

These findings are a valuable resource for educators and organisations considering simulation-based learning initiatives in the intensive care setting.

No Patient or Public Contribution

This review involved analysis of existing literature and as such no unique patient or public involvement occurred.

Reporting Method

The systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) reporting guidelines.

Effects of virtual reality‐based cognitive interventions on cognitive function and activity of daily living among stroke patients: Systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract

Aims

To examine the effects of virtual reality-based cognitive interventions on cognitive function and activities of daily living among stroke patients, and to identify the optimal design for such intervention.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data Sources

Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane, CINANL, JBI-EBP and Web of Science from inception to October 2023.

Methods

Methodological quality was assessed by Risk of Bias Tool. Meta-analyses were assessed by Review Manager 5.4. Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore the influence of study design. Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach was adopted to assess the certainty of evidence.

Results

Twenty-five randomized controlled trials (1178 participants) were included. Virtual reality-based cognitive interventions demonstrated moderate-to-large effects in improving global cognitive function (SMD = 0.43; 95% CI [0.01, 0.85]), executive function (SMD = 0.84; 95% CI [0.25, 1.43]) and memory (SMD = 0.65; 95% CI [0.15, 1.16]) compared to control treatments. No significant effects were found on language, visuospatial ability and activities of daily living. Subgroup analyses indicated one-on-one coaching, individualized design and dynamic difficulty adjustment, and interventions lasting ≥ 6 weeks had particularly enhanced effects, especially for executive function.

Conclusions

Virtual reality-based cognitive interventions improve global cognitive function, executive function and memory among stroke patients.

Implications for the Patient Care

This review underscores the broad cognitive advantages offered by virtual technology, suggesting its potential integration into standard stroke rehabilitation protocols for enhanced cognitive recovery.

Impact

The study identifies key factors in virtual technology interventions that effectively improve cognitive function among stroke patients, offering healthcare providers a framework for leveraging such technology to optimize cognitive outcomes in stroke rehabilitation.

Reporting Method

PRISMA 2020 statement.

PROSPERO Registration Number

CRD42022342668.

The impact of COVID‐19 on nurse alcohol consumption: A qualitative exploration

Abstract

Aims and objectives

To explore the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nurse alcohol consumption.

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused immense disruption to healthcare services worldwide, and nurses have not been immune, experiencing burnout, declining mental health and ultimately, attrition from the profession. Increases in alcohol consumption have been reported across subsections of society, including those with pre-existing mental ill health and experiencing high stress, and exploring this phenomenon in nurses is essential for workforce well-being and sustainability.

Design

Qualitative descriptive study design.

Methods

Secondary analysis of individual, semi-structured interviews with nurses (N = 42) from diverse settings across Australia, including community, primary and hospital settings, conducted in July and August 2021. Data were analysed using structural coding and reported in accordance with the CORE-Q guidelines.

Findings

Two key themes were found after analysis of the data: (1) factors influencing alcohol consumption (subthemes: workplace factors and external factors), and (2) the pandemic's influence on alcohol consumption (subthemes: increased consumption, moderation of consumption and alcohol as a reward).

Conclusions

Several participants described increased alcohol consumption because of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly due to the stress of working in an environment where resources were scarce. Workplace factors such as overtime, missed breaks and heightened workload were all described as driving stress, and in turn increased alcohol consumption.

Relevance to clinical practice

Increased alcohol consumption has been associated with burnout, absenteeism and intention to leave. The nursing profession is currently undergoing significant continuing stress providing care and management to patients with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, and increased alcohol consumption is a significant threat to personal and workforce well-being, workforce sustainability and quality nursing care.

Nurses' coping strategies caring for patients during severe viral pandemics: A mixed‐methods systematic review

Abstract

Background

Nurses play an essential role in responding to severe viral disease which bring considerable challenges to their personal and professional well-being. This subsequently can affect the delivery of care and healthcare systems' organisational capacity to respond. Understanding nurses' experiences of these challenges will help inform healthcare policies.

Aim

To explore the experiences and coping strategies of nurses caring for patients during severe viral disease pandemics.

Design

A mixed-methods systematic review informed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology.

Methods

A mixed-methods systematic review. Five electronic databases Medline, CINAHL, PsychInfo, ASSIA and Scopus were searched on 4th April 2021. Results were reported in accordance with PRISMA. The findings were analysed and reported in the context of the Self-Regulatory Common-Sense Model.

Results

In total, 71 peer-review primary research articles describing nurses' experiences of caring for patients during SARS, MERS, Swine flu H1N1, Avian influenza or SARS-CoV-2 / COVID-19 published in English from 2003 to 2021 were included. We found links between nurses' perception of the health threats, their emotional reactions, and coping strategies. Perceived health threats were influenced by organisational factors including frequent changes in clinical guidelines and workplace protocols, onerous workloads and working hours, unavailability of PPE, and lack of knowledge and training in pandemic management. These impacted nurses' physical, psychological and social well-being. Nurses also reported helpful and unhelpful coping strategies to manage the health threats.

Conclusions

It is vital for stakeholders, policymakers, government and healthcare institutions to recognise and monitor the wider impact on healthcare workers from health emergencies. In addition, support to develop and implement effective systems and individual mechanisms to offset the anticipated impact pre and post pandemics/epidemics is needed. Our findings can inform those strategies for similar future health emergencies.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Nurses are often the first point of contact in providing direct care to patients, hence they are at high risk of being infected. The findings from this review can help managers and policymakers in developing programmes to enhance resilience in the nursing workforce.

No Patient or Public Contribution

This was a literature review study.

Predictors of professional burnout and fulfilment in a longitudinal analysis on nurses and healthcare workers in the COVID‐19 pandemic

Abstract

Aims and objectives

(1) To investigate the vulnerability of nurses to experiencing professional burnout and low fulfilment across 5 months of the COVID-19 pandemic. (2) To identify modifiable variables in hospital leadership and individual vulnerabilities that may mitigate these effects.

Background

Nurses were at increased risk for burnout and low fulfilment prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospital leadership factors such as organisational structure and open communication and consideration of employee opinions are known to have positive impacts on work attitudes. Personal risk factors for burnout include symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Methods

Healthcare workers (n = 406 at baseline, n = 234 longitudinal), including doctors (n = 102), nurses (n = 94), technicians (n = 90) and non-clinical administrative staff (n = 120), completed 5 online questionnaires, once per month, for 5 months. Participants completed self-report questionnaires on professional fulfilment and burnout, perceptions of healthcare leadership, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Participants were recruited from various healthcare settings in the southeastern United States. The STROBE checklist was used to report the present study.

Results

Both at baseline and across the 5 months, nurses working during the COVID-19 pandemic reported increased burnout and decreased fulfilment relative to doctors. For all participants, burnout remained largely steady and fulfilment decreased slightly. The strongest predictors of both burnout and fulfilment were organisational structure and depressive symptoms. Leadership consideration and anxiety symptoms had smaller, yet significant, relationships to burnout and fulfilment in longitudinal analyses.

Conclusions

Burnout and reduced fulfilment remain a problem for healthcare workers, especially nurses. Leadership styles and employee symptoms of depression and anxiety are appropriate targets for intervention.

Relevance to clinical practice

Leadership wishing to reduce burnout and increase fulfilment among employees should increase levels of organisational support and consideration and expand supports to employees seeking treatment for depression and anxiety.

The important factors nurses consider when choosing shift patterns: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Aim

To gain a deeper understanding of what is important to nurses when thinking about shift patterns and the organisation of working time.

Design

A cross-sectional survey of nursing staff working across the UK and Ireland collected quantitative and qualitative responses.

Methods

We recruited from two National Health Service Trusts and through an open call via trade union membership, online/print nursing profession magazines and social media. Worked versus preferred shift length/pattern, satisfaction and choice over shift patterns and nurses' views on aspects related to work and life (when working short, long, rotating shifts) were analysed with comparisons of proportions of agreement and crosstabulation. Qualitative responses on important factors related to shift preferences were analysed with inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Eight hundred and seventy-three survey responses were collected. When nurses worked long shifts and rotating shifts, lower proportions reported being satisfied with their shifts and working their preferred shift length and pattern. Limited advantages were realised when comparing different shift types; however, respondents more frequently associated ‘low travel costs’ and ‘better ability to do paid overtime’ with long shifts and ‘healthy diet/exercise’ with short shifts; aspects related to rotating shifts often had the lowest proportions of agreement. In the qualitative analysis, three themes were developed: ‘When I want to work’, ‘Impacts to my life outside work’ and ‘Improving my work environment’. Reasons for nurses' shift preferences were frequently related to nurses' priorities outside of work, highlighting the importance of organising schedules that support a good work-life balance.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

General scheduling practices like adhering to existing shift work guidelines, using consistent and predictable shift patterns and facilitating flexibility over working time were identified by nurses as enablers for their preferences and priorities. These practices warrant meaningful consideration when establishing safe and efficient nurse rosters.

Patient or Public Contribution

This survey was developed and tested with a diverse group of stakeholders, including nursing staff, patients, union leads and ward managers.

Reporting Method

The Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies (STROBE) checklist for cross-sectional studies was used to guide reporting.

Transitional care model for older adults with multiple chronic conditions: An evaluation of benefits utilising an umbrella review

Abstract

Aims

To synthesise and describe the combined evidence from systematic reviews of interventions using elements from the Transitional Care Model, on the content and timeframe of the interventions and the related improvement of outcomes for older patients with multiple chronic conditions.

Background

The population of older patients with multiple chronic conditions is increasing worldwide and trajectories are often complicated by risk factors. The Transitional Care Model may contain elements to support transitions between hospital and home.

Design

An umbrella review.

Review Methods

A comprehensive search in five electronic databases was performed in April 2021 based on the search terms: ‘Patients ≥60 years,’ ‘multi-morbidity,’ ‘Transitional care model,’ ‘Transitional care,’ and ‘Systematic review.’ PRISMA guidelines was used.

Results

Five systematic reviews published from 2011 to 2020 comprising 62 intervention studies (59 randomised controlled trials and three quasi-experimental trials) were included in the review. The synthesis predominantly revealed significant improvements in decreasing re-admissions and financial costs and increasing patients' quality of life and satisfaction during discharge.

Conclusion

The results of the review indicate that multiple elements from the Transitional Care Model have achieved significant improvements in older patients' transitions from hospital to home. Especially a combination of coordination, communication, collaboration and continuity of care in transitions, organised information and education for patients and pre-arranged structured post-discharge follow-ups.

Impact

The transition from hospital to home is a complex process for older patients with multiple chronic conditions. A specific focus on coordination, continuity, and patient education should be implemented in the discharge process. Nurses with specialised knowledge in transitional care are needed to ensure safe transitions.

Patient and Public Contribution

The umbrella review is part of a larger research program which involved a patient expert advisory board, which participated in discussing the relevance of the elements within the umbrella review.

A meta‐synthesis exploring nurses' experiences of assisted dying and participation decision‐making

Abstract

Aims and Objectives

To explore nurses' experiences of assisted dying and understand how their perspectives inform their participation decision-making.

Background

Assisted dying is a complex and contentious issue with the potential to create moral unrest for nurses. The nursing role in assisted dying varies between jurisdictions.

Design

Systematic review. A meta-synthesis using thematic analysis.

Methods

Three electronic databases were searched for primary qualitative studies published in English, from New Zealand, Australia or Canada, up to October 2022. Seven articles were included; themes were analysed and key themes were established. Reporting adhered to PRISMA.

Results

The findings highlight the complexity of nurses' decision-making about participation or non-participation in assisted dying and the moral, philosophical and social influences that impact on their decision-making. This is presented as a spectrum of influence which persuades or dissuades nurses to participate in assisted dying. The 12 themes have been categorised into four key themes: personal persuaders, personal dissuaders, professional persuaders and professional dissuaders.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that nurses should be involved in policy and procedure guideline development and be offered education and training programmes to ensure safe, confident and informed practice. The need for mentorship programmes was also prevalent in the research.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

It is crucial that nurses be offered education and training in assisted dying. Clear policy and procedure guidelines are essential, and nurses should be involved in the development of these.

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