To conceptualise experiences and perceptions of cancer nurses' potential for occupational exposure when dealing with cytotoxic drugs (CDs).
A mixed methods systematic review with framework synthesis.
A literature search was conducted in February 2022 in CINAHL PubMed, Web of Science, Ovid Nursing, and PsycINFO, and it was reported using the PRISMA guidance.
A synthesis of 38 studies revealed new categories of perceived solutions, side effects, and risky behaviour as well as three levels of experience and perception: individual, shared, and cultural, rather than the a priori theory.
The review conclude that individuals espouse safe handling and administration of CDs. Synthesis highlights a complex interplay between self-reported perception and the observed experience of potential occupational exposure to cytotoxic drugs.
The framework synthesis highlights the difference between the perception of espoused practice and the experience of practice. Observation and risk assessment must be used to enhance safe practice. Organisations must take seriously the perception and experience of the adverse effects of administering cytotoxic drugs to support cancer nurses.
Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI) methodology for systematic reviews and framework synthesis indexed studies deductively and inductively.
No patient or public contribution.
PROSPERO: CRD42022289276
To generate, test and refine programme theories that emerged from a rapid realist review investigating practising UK Nurses' and Midwives' experiences of effective leadership strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The realist review of literature generated six tentative theories of healthful leadership practices reflecting, working with people's beliefs and values; being facilitative; multiple means of communication and; practical support. The review yielded little insight into the actual impact of the leadership approaches advocated.
A realist study, informed by person-centredness using mixed-methods. Online survey (n = 328) and semi-structured interviews (n = 14) of nurses and midwives across the UK in different career positions/specialities. Quantitative data analysed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis. Framework analysis for qualitative data using context (C), mechanism (M), outcome (O) configurations of the tentative theories.
Three refined theories were identified concerning: Visibility and availability; embodying values and; knowing self. Healthful leadership practices are only achievable within organisational cultures that privilege well-being.
Leaders should intentionally adopt practices that promote well-being. ‘Knowing self’ as a leader, coaching and mentoring practice development is important for leadership development.
Nurses who feel valued, heard, cared for and safe are more likely to remain in clinical practice. Job satisfaction and being motivated to practice with confidence and competence will impact positively on patient outcomes.
The study addresses the role of leadership in developing healthful workplace cultures. The main findings were six leadership practices that promote healthful cultures. The research will have an impact on strategic and clinical leaders, nurses and midwives.
This study used EQUATOR checklist, RAMASES II as reporting standards for realist evaluations.
No patient or public contribution.