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Anteayer Journal of Advanced Nursing

Clinical supervision experience of nurses in or transitioning to advanced practice: A systematic review

Abstract

Aims

To systematically explore the clinical supervision (CS) experience for nurses transitioning to advanced practice.

Design

A qualitative systematic review using Joanna Briggs Institute meta-aggregation following an a priori protocol published on PROSPERO (CRD42023426658).

Data Sources

Qualitative studies obtained from Medline, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Scopus, Emcare and ERIC databases and ProQuest dissertations and theses for peer-reviewed, published and unpublished studies from inception to July 2023.

Review Methods

Two authors conducted data screening and abstraction. Quality was appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool and reporting followed the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research checklist for systematic reviews.

Results

Sixteen studies contributed to five synthesized findings: CS that is beneficial requires structure and commitment, trusting relationships are foundational for learning, lifting burdens and preventing burnout, learning through reflection, critical thinking and feedback and barriers to CS.

Conclusions

This review provides a meaningful exploration of CS to support nurses transitioning to advanced practice. Well-structured supervision offers a safe space to share work-related concerns and develop an advanced practitioner identity. Sharing experiences helps alleviate work-related burdens and reduce professional isolation and burnout.

Implications for the Profession

Peer-support networks are vital for successful transition to advanced practice.

Impact

This review highlighted the impact of effective supervisory relationships in forming professional identity and possible links with nursing retention.

Public Contribution

No direct patient contributions are included as it forms part of a research degree.

Perceptions of surveillance with magnetic resonance imaging among women with a hereditary risk of breast cancer—A phenomenographic study

Abstract

Aim

To explore perceptions of annual surveillance with magnetic resonance imaging and perceptions of care during the examination among women with a hereditary risk of breast cancer.

Design

Phenomenography.

Methods

Fourteen face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured interview guide were conducted among women undergoing surveillance in the southern region of Sweden. A seven-step phenomenographic analysis with investigator triangulation was performed.

Results

‘Considering own risk of developing breast cancer’, ‘Entrusting oneself to surveillance’ and ‘Living in a cycle’ represented descriptive categories of perceptions. Family narratives introduced comprehension of own risk of breast cancer, followed by appraisal of own benefits of participating in surveillance. Entrusting oneself to surveillance included handing over management of diagnostic examinations and dealing with practical issues and diverse emotions related to surveillance. Planning life based around surveillance, struggling with fluctuating emotions, also between the examinations and questioning own identity implied the perception of living in a cycle.

Conclusion

Surveillance for hereditary breast cancer implies living in a cycle of dealing with fluctuating emotions and planning life based around surveillance. Comprehension of one's own risk for breast cancer arises from awareness in the family. Women value the surveillance programme and trust the healthcare system.

Implication for the Profession and Patient Care

Knowledge of women's perceptions of the surveillance programme and care is vital for supporting women in their decision-making on attendance and providing person-centred care during surveillance.

Impact

A gap in explorative studies from the perspective of the individual woman in the context of surveillance for breast cancer and care in magnetic resonance imaging in surveillance was addressed. ‘Considering own risk of developing breast cancer’, ‘Entrusting oneself to surveillance’ and ‘Living in a cycle’ represented women's perceptions of surveillance and care. The study results have implications for person-centred care among women in the surveillance programme.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Autistic patients' experiences of the hospital setting: A scoping review

Abstract

Aim

To explore the factors that affect the experiences of autistic patients in the hospital setting.

Design

A scoping review.

Data Sources

A systematic literature search using the databases CINAHL, Medline and Google Scholar was undertaken in September 2021 and updated in January 2023. This review is based on the methodological framework of Arksey and O'Malley (International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 8(1):19–32, 2005), which was further refined by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews.

Results

Autistic patients, as well as their families and healthcare staff, face several barriers that can impact their healthcare experiences within hospital settings. Of 211 articles screened, 30 were eligible and included. Through our review, we identified two main themes. The first theme, ‘challenges to hospital experiences’, includes four sub-themes: (1) communication, (2) a mismatch between the needs for autistic patients and the hospital environment, (3) challenges related to parents' experiences and (4) challenges related to hospital systems. The second theme, ‘facilitators that improve hospital experiences’, includes three sub-themes: (1) provision of care pathways, (2) partnership between parents and experts and (3) facilitators to improve hospital systems. By understanding these themes, we can work to address the barriers that autistic patients and their families face, while leveraging the facilitators to improve their hospital experiences.

Conclusion

It is critical to understand the experiences of autistic patients in the hospital setting because they present a substantial risk of hospital admission due to their associated acute to chronic health conditions. Additionally, nurses and other medical staff must understand the unique hospital experiences and challenges of autistic patients to improve care and facilitate better hospital experiences. This review further highlights the crucial need to adopt a collaborative and inclusive approach between autistic patients, their families and healthcare staff. To achieve this, co-design initiatives that incorporate the perspectives and lived experiences of the autistic community are necessary. By placing autistic voices at the forefront of these initiatives, it is hoped that changes are meaningful, relevant and can be sustained.

Impact

Understanding the unique hospital experiences and challenges of autistic patients can improve their quality of life and well-being by reducing stress and anxiety during hospitalization, leading to better health outcomes and potentially shorter hospital stays. It can also promote a more positive view of healthcare among autistic individuals, encouraging them to seek medical care when needed and have broader societal impacts such as reducing healthcare costs and improving the overall health and well-being of the population. Autistic patients present a substantial risk of hospital admission due to their associated acute to chronic conditions. Nurses and other medical staff must understand the unique hospital experiences and challenges of autistic patients to improve care and facilitate better hospital experiences.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Renegotiating identity. A Nordic study of adolescent's experiences of living with a parent having heart disease

Abstract

Aim

To explore adolescents' experiences of having a parent with heart disease.

Design

This qualitative study was performed with semi-structured individual interviews.

Methods

Interviews were conducted with 33 adolescents between 13 and 19 years old, who either had a mother or father with one of these diagnoses: ischemic heart disease, arrhythmia, heart failure, cardiac arrest or heart valve disease. The parent had been ill for at least 6 months and up to 5 years. The study was carried out in Denmark, Norway and Sweden between 2019 and 2022. The analysis was inspired by Reflexive Methodology.

Results

Three central themes emerged: Response to parental heart disease; Growing up ahead of time; and Strategies in a changed life situation. For the adolescents, heart disease was experienced as an acute and lethal disease that put their parents' lives in danger. New routines and roles not only changed everyday life within the family but they also enhanced maturity and appreciation of life. To maintain a balance in life, the adolescents pursued normality and sought a safe space to have a normal youthful life.

Conclusion

In a period known to be significant for development, life with parental heart disease appeared as a biographical disruption because adolescents renegotiated their identity to manage their new life situation.

Impact

It is important to help younger family members adapt to parental heart disease by informing them about possible reactions and supporting them in how to adapt to their new life by seeking breaks and normality.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public involvement.

Suicide death, suicidal ideation and suicide attempt in patients with diabetes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract

Aims

Diabetes has been indicated to be a risk factor for suicide. We aim to estimate the prevalence of suicide in patients with diabetes.

Design

A meta-analysis using PRISMA methodology was adopted to examine the incidence of suicide in diabetic patients.

Data Sources

From inception to October 2022, three online databases (PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Web of Science) were used to search studies.

Review Methods

We used random-effects model to analysis. And our primary outcome was the incidence of suicide death per 100 person-years, and other outcomes were prevalence of suicidal ideation and suicide attempt. To explore the sources of heterogeneity in our study, we performed subgroup and meta-regression analyses.

Results

The suicide death rate in diabetic patients was 0.027 per 100 person-years, with a higher rate for Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus compared to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. The prevalence of suicidal ideation in diabetes patients was 0.175, with a higher prevalence in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus compared to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. The prevalence of suicide attempts in diabetes patients was 0.033, indicating a higher rate for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus compared to Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus.

Conclusions

The results indicate a high rate of suicide among people with diabetes, and this study identifies populations and regions at high risk for suicide. Our review emphasizes interventions in mental health and the improvement of suicide prevention programmes.

Impact

The study investigated suicide death, suicidal ideation and suicide attempt in diabetic individuals. Suicide rates are elevated among diabetic patients, and various patient groups face distinct suicide risks. It is important to prioritize the mental well-being of diabetic individuals and enhance interventions, including personalized approaches, to inform public health efforts aimed at preventing and addressing suicide among diabetic patients.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public involvement.

Registered nurses' perceptions of healthy lifestyle counselling for immigrants in primary healthcare: A focus group study

Abstract

Background

The use of primary healthcare and health promotion services is low among immigrants compared with native citizens. Immigrants are at risk of developing chronic diseases due to genetics, nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle. Registered nurses play an integral role in teaching, counselling for a healthy lifestyle and care coordination in primary healthcare.

Aim

We aimed to explore the perceptions of registered nurses on healthy lifestyle counselling for preventing type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases among immigrants in the primary healthcare setting.

Design

We performed a qualitative descriptive study using focus group interviews.

Methods

Data were collected with semi-structured focus group interviews with a total of 23 registered nurses working in primary healthcare. We recruited the participants by using the purposive sampling method in the primary healthcare setting of four municipalities in Finland. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed with qualitative inductive content analysis.

Results

The participants' perceptions were related to (1) uniform counselling practice for both immigrants and native citizens, (2) challenges in counselling immigrants, (3) understanding cultural factors influencing immigrant counselling, (4) the need to improve immigrant counselling and (5) utilizing insights from practical experience to improve the counselling service.

Conclusions

Developing a culturally sensitive health promotion service is suggested to support the health of immigrants. Moreover, both migrant communities and healthcare professionals should be involved in co-designing and implementing health promotion projects through a community-based participatory approach.

Impact

Our study contributes to healthcare practice and management by underscoring the need for culturally tailored health promotion services for the at-risk group of immigrants in primary healthcare. Cultural competence in nursing education needs to be reinforced. The provided recommendations inform researchers and policymakers about the health disparities and health needs of immigrants.

Public Contribution

Healthcare professionals were consulted in the study design.

Investigating the impact of temporary nurses on permanent nurses' commitment via perceptions of illegitimate tasks: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Aims

To explore illegitimate tasks as a potential mechanism that links permanent nurses' perceived exposure to temporary nurses to lower levels of affective organizational commitment.

Design

A time-lagged cross-sectional survey study.

Methods

Survey data from N = 239 permanent nurses in the German-speaking part of Switzerland were analysed via Structural Equation Models.

Results

The study revealed a negative relationship between permanent nurses' perceived exposure to temporary nurses and their level of organizational commitment that was mediated by perceptions of unreasonable and unnecessary tasks.

Conclusion

Healthcare institutions increasingly depend on temporary nurses to fill staffing vacancies. Our data suggest that the deployment of temporary nurses may have adverse effects on permanent nurses' affective organizational commitment via perceptions of illegitimate tasks.

Impact

Our quantitative survey study provides a novel, theory-driven understanding of how perceived exposure to temporary nurses may impact work-related attitudes of permanent nurses.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Our findings suggest that the clinical community should limit permanent nurses' exposure to temporary nursing staff to protect their commitment. If this is not possible, we encourage strategies to counteract associated feelings of illegitimacy, for example, by showing appreciation for permanent nurses' willingness to take over responsibility for temporary nurses.

Reporting Method

The study adheres to the STROBE reporting guidelines for cross-sectional studies.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Midwives' stress and burnout during the Omicron wave in Italy: An observational survey

Abstract

Aim

To evaluate midwives' level of stress and burnout during the COVID-19 Omicron phase in Italy. Secondary aims were to explore the impact of the pandemic on midwives' personal dimensions and professional activities and potential supporting strategies.

Design

A mixed-methods study was undertaken from July to December 2022.

Methods

Data were collected using a national online observational survey. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed to evaluate stress, burnout and the impact of the pandemic on personal and professional dimensions. A deductive qualitative approach was used to analyse open-ended responses, that were merged with quantitative data following a convergent mixed-methods approach.

Results

A total of 1944 midwives participated in the survey. The stress summary score mean was 10.34, and 562 midwives (28.91%) experienced burnout. The intention to reduce working hours was reported by 202 midwives (10.39%), with 60.40% (n = 122) of them experiencing burnout. The intention to leave clinical practice within the following 2 years was reported by 239 (12.29%), with 68.20% (n = 163) of them experiencing burnout. All the personal dimensions and professional activities considered were defined by more than half of midwives as being impacted ‘Moderately’ or ‘To a great extent’ by pandemic. Stress and burnout frequencies increased when the midwives' perception of the pandemic effects was higher. Potential supporting strategies described by midwives as the most important in increasing their ability to cope with the pandemic were ‘Women's awareness of the midwives' role’ (n = 1072; 55.14%) and ‘Family and friends' emotional support’ (n = 746; 38.38%).

Conclusion

Our findings suggested strategies to support a positive and safe working environment for midwives during a pandemic emergency, with potential transferability to similar contexts when human resources are lacking. It is recommended that maternity services provide the necessary resources for a safe and supportive working environment to prevent high stress levels and chronic burnout.

Impact

Studies conducted during the first COVID-19 pandemic wave showed an increased level of stress, anxiety, burnout, post-traumatic stress disorder and depression experienced by healthcare professionals; moreover, midwives experienced drastic changes in care pathways and policies with struggles identified when providing high-quality woman-centred care following pandemic restrictions. Although it is recommended, there is lack of knowledge about long-term psychological effects of COVID-19 for midwives. Our study highlights that during the Omicron wave midwives experienced a high level of stress and burnout with an impact on individual dimensions and professional activities. Their stress and burnout were influenced by several factors, including restrictions in place, lack of organizational acknowledgement, work overload and need for extra childcare cover. Maternity services should provide the necessary resources for a safe and supportive working environment to prevent high stress levels and chronic burnout. Recommendations on how to facilitate this are suggested.

Reporting Method

During the writing process, we referred to ‘The Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies Epidemiology Statement’, the guidelines for reporting observational studies from the Equator network.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

What does this paper contribute to the wider global clinical community?

Work overload conditions negatively impacted on the quality of maternity services. Improving organizational aspects, reducing working hours, promoting family and friends' emotional support and improving women's awareness of midwife's role were the main strategies reported by midwives. These suggestions for ensuring a positive and safe working environment for midwives during a pandemic emergency could potentially be applied to similar situations where human resources are lacking.

Nurses' and physicians' perspectives on implementation barriers and facilitators in a transfer program for parents of adolescents with chronic illness

Abstract

Aim

To identify barriers and facilitators impacting the implementation of a comprehensive transfer program aimed at parents of adolescents with chronic illness in clinical practice.

Design

A real-time, qualitative process evaluation.

Methods

Individual interviews were conducted with 10 nurses and seven physicians from paediatric and adult outpatient clinics: Nephrology, hepatology, neurology, and rheumatology. Data were analysed through the lens of normalization process theory.

Results

Themes were framed within the theory's four components. (1) Coherence: Healthcare professionals' views on their core tasks and on the parents' role influenced their perception of the program. (2) Cognitive participation: A named key worker, autonomy, and collaboration impacted healthcare professionals' involvement in the program. (3) Collective action: Department prioritization and understanding of the program's aim were key factors in its successful delivery. (4) Reflective monitoring: Participants experienced that the program helped parents during transfer but questioned if the program was needed by all families.

Conclusion

We identified three barriers: Healthcare professionals' lack of understanding of the parental role during transfer, top-down decisions among nurses, and physicians' uncertainty about their role in joint consultations. Facilitators: Healthcare professionals' understanding of the program's purpose and expected effect, the nurses' significant role as named keyworkers, and good collaboration across paediatric and adult departments.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Implementation strategies should be developed before implementing a transfer program in clinical practice.

Impact

Implementing a parental transfer program in clinical practice can be challenging. Therefore, for successful implementation, it is crucial to identify barriers and facilitators. Barriers and facilitators exist at the personal, professional, and organizational levels, and it is important to understand them. The results of this qualitative study could support the implementation of transfer programs in other settings.

Reporting Method

Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative studies (COREQ).

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

What does this paper contribute to the wider global clinical community?

Nurses' and physicians' experiences of ownership of the transfer program is essential for successful implementation. Clinics should appoint a named keyworker, preferably a nurse, as the driving force during the implementation of a transfer program. Nurses and physicians should receive training about the purpose, justification, and expected effect of a transfer program before implementation.

Pre‐hospital symptom clusters and symptom network analysis in decompensated cirrhotic patients: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Aims

To generate pre-hospital symptom networks, explore core, bridge and sentinel symptoms, identify pre-hospital symptom clusters and analyse relationship between influencing factors and symptom clusters in decompensated cirrhosis patients.

Design

A cross-sectional study design using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology checklist.

Methods

Demographical, physiological, psychological and sociological characteristics and the pre-hospital symptoms of 292 decompensated cirrhotic patients were collected from October 2021 to March 2023 in China. Frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, independent samples t-tests, one-way analysis of variance, exploratory factor analysis, multiple stepwise regression analysis and network analysis were used for data analysis.

Results

‘I don't look like myself’ and itching were core and bridge symptoms, while bloating and lack of energy were sentinel symptoms in decompensated cirrhotic patients. Monthly family income, anxiety, depression, social support and disease duration influenced the neuropsychological symptom cluster, with worrying as the strongest predictor symptom. Influential factors for cirrhosis-specific symptom cluster included Child-Pugh class, monthly family income, disease duration, anxiety and depression, with itching being the strongest predictor symptom. Monthly family income, disease duration and depression were influential factors for gastrointestinal symptom cluster, with loss of appetite as the strongest predictor symptom.

Conclusions

Neuropsychological, cirrhosis-specific and gastrointestinal symptom clusters were formed in decompensated cirrhotic patients. Through network analysis, direct connections between symptoms, symptom clusters and their influencing factors were revealed, thereby offering clinicians a foundation for effectively managing patients' pre-hospital symptoms.

Impact

Decompensated cirrhosis patients commonly have multiple symptoms, while the management of pre-hospital symptoms is often suboptimal. This study identified neuropsychological, cirrhosis-specific, gastrointestinal symptom clusters and recognized core, bridge and sentinel symptoms in these patients. It also revealed the most prominent symptoms within each cluster. This provides insight into the hierarchy of symptoms, improving symptom management in decompensated cirrhosis.

Patient and Public Involvement

There was no patient or public involvement.

The parent perspective on paediatric delirium and an associated care bundle: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aims

To explore how parents experienced their child with delirium and how parents viewed our delirium management bundle.

Design

We conducted a qualitative exploratory descriptive study using semi-structured individual or dyad interviews.

Methods

Twelve semi-structured interviews with 16 parents of 12 critically ill children diagnosed with delirium in a paediatric intensive care unit were conducted from October 2022 to January 2023 and analysed through a reflexive thematic analysis.

Findings

We generated five themes: (1) knowing that something is very wrong, (2) observing manifest changes in the child, (3) experiencing fear of long-term consequences, (4) adding insight to the bundle, and (5) family engagement.

Conclusion

The parents in our study were able to observe subtle and manifest changes in their child with delirium. This caused fear of lasting impact. The parents regarded most of the interventions in the delirium management bundle as relevant but needed individualization in the application. The parents requested more information regarding delirium and a higher level of parent engagement in the care of their child during delirium.

Impact

This paper contributes to understanding how parents might experience delirium in their critically ill child, how our delirium management bundle was received by the parents, and their suggestions for improvement. Our study deals with critically ill children with delirium, their parents, and staff working to prevent and manage paediatric delirium (PD) in the paediatric intensive care unit.

Reporting Method

The consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research guidelines were used to ensure the transparency of our reporting.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution to the research design.

What does this Paper Contribute to the Wider Global Community?

- It increases awareness of the parent's perspective on PD in critically ill children. - It shows how PD might affect parents, causing negative emotions such as distress, frustration, and fear of permanent damage. - It shows that the parents in our study, in addition to the care bundle, requested more information on delirium and more involvement in the care of their delirious child.

Remote area nurses' experiences of workplace safety in very remote primary health clinics: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aim

To explore Remote Area Nurses' experiences of the implementation of workplace health and safety policies and risk mitigation strategies in Australian very remote primary health clinics.

Design

This qualitative study used online semi-structured interviews, with participants purposively sampled to maximize variation in work location and service type. Data were analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis approach. Coding was carried out inductively, with NVivo 12 aiding data management.

Setting

The interviews were conducted from 24 Februrary 2021 to 06 March 2021 with Remote Area Nurses from very remote primary health clinics in Australia.

Participants

Fifteen Remote Area Nurses participated in the study.

Results

Thematic analysis revealed varied approaches to workplace safety among the different health services and regions. While the spread of ‘never alone’ policies in many clinics addressed one of the significant risks faced by Remote Area Nurses, gaps remained even for hazards specifically highlighted in existing work health and safety legislation. Meaningful collaboration with staff and the community, local orientation, preparation for the role and providing quality care were protective factors for staff safety. Understaffing, unsafe infrastructure and inadequate equipment were common concerns among Remote Area Nurses.

Conclusion

Health services need to prioritize workplace safety and take a continuous quality improvement approach to its implementation. This will include ensuring safety strategies are appropriate for the local context, improving infrastructure maintenance, and establishing sustainable second responder systems such as a pool of drivers with local knowledge.

Implications for the Profession

Poor personal safety contributes to burnout and high turnover of staff. Nurses' insights into the barriers and enablers of current workplace safety strategies will aid policymakers and employers in future improvements.

Reporting Method

COREQ reporting guidelines were followed.

PIPE Statement

A panel of six Remote Area Nurses collaborated in the development of this project.

Satisfaction with maternity triage following implementation of the Birmingham Symptom‐Specific Obstetric Triage System (BSOTS): Perspectives of women and staff

Abstract

Aim

To explore the satisfaction and experiences of women and staff with the BSOTS in an Australian hospital.

Design

Cross-sectional descriptive survey.

Methods

Surveys were distributed to women and staff between February and May 2022. Survey questions reflected satisfaction with triage and provision of care under the BSOTS system (for women) and confidence in using the BSOTS system and its impact on triage-related care (for staff). Survey data were summarized using descriptive statistics, and qualitative responses were analysed using content analysis.

Results

There were 50 women and 40 staff (midwives and doctors) survey respondents. Most women were satisfied with triage wait times, the verbal information they received and the time it took for them to receive care. Nearly all midwife participants indicated they had high knowledge and confidence in using the BSOTS. Most staff indicated that the BSOTS supported the accurate assessment of women and had benefits for women, staff and the hospital.

Conclusion

The findings showed that women and staff were satisfied with receiving and providing care in a maternity triage setting under the BSOTS system.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Implementing standardized maternity triage approaches such as the BSOTS in health settings delivering care to pregnant women is recommended for improving flow of care and perceptions of care quality by women.

Impact

Quality of maternity triage processes is likely to impact the satisfaction of women attending services and the staff providing care. The BSOTS was shown to improve maternity triage processes and was associated with satisfaction of women and staff. Maternity settings can benefit from implementing triage approaches such as the BSOTS as it standardizes and justifies the care provided to women. This is likely to result in satisfaction of women and staff engaged in maternity triage and improve the birth outcomes of women and babies.

Reporting Method

The reporting of this paper has followed SQUIRE guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

Women engaged with maternity services were participants in the study but did not contribute to the design, conduct or publication of the study.

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

Abstract

Aim

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

Background

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

Design

A qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

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

Results

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

Conclusion

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

Impact

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

Patient or Public Contribution

A nurse provided feedback on the interview guide.

Work‐related stress, stress reactions and coping strategies in ambulance nurses: A qualitative interview study

Abstract

Aim

To describe experiences of work-related stress, stress reactions and coping strategies among registered nurses (RNs) in the ambulance service (AS).

Design

A descriptive and qualitative design.

Methods

Participants were recruited from eight different ambulance stations from different geographical locations in central Sweden. Data were collected from 14 RNs during the period from January 2022 to May 2022 using a semi-structured interview guide. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse data using an abductive approach.

Results

Three categories describe the RNs' experiences; (1) Situations that cause work-related stress, (2) Reactions and feelings that occur and (3) Management of work-related stress. These three main categories included a total of 12 subcategories. Work-related stress was experienced when participants were a part of traumatic events or experienced insufficient cooperation or a disturbing event in the work environment. The different causes lead to different kinds of reactions with feelings of frustration, fear and loneliness being prominent. To manage the work-related stress, RNs used different kinds of strategies and support from colleagues or lack thereof seemed to have a major impact.

Conclusions

Findings revealed the importance of having competent colleagues in the AS. Working with a competent colleague can reduce experiences of stress and prevent feelings of loneliness. It is important for the AS to provide stress-reduction support, to promote cooperation and to maintain and develop RNs' professional competence to ensure quality care and patient safety in the AS.

Using spatial video geonarratives to improve nursing care for people who use drugs and experience homelessness: A methodology for nurses

Abstract

Background

People who are insecurely housed and use drugs are disproportionately affected by drug poisonings. Nurses are uniquely positioned to utilize harm reduction strategies to address the needs of the whole person. Needle debris encompasses drug paraphernalia discarded in public spaces. Studying needle debris provides a strategic opportunity to identify where drugs are being used and target public health strategies accordingly.

Aim

Our aim in this article is to illustrate how spatial video geonarratives (SVG) combined GPS technology interviews, and videos of locations with needle debris, can elicit valuable data for nursing research.

Methods

Using SVG required knowledge of how to collect data wearing cameras and practice sessions were necessary. A Miufly camera worn at waist height on a belt provided the stability to walk while interviewing stakeholders. We wore the cameras and conducted go-along interviews with outreach workers, while filming the built environment. Upon completion of data collection, both the interview and GPS information were analysed using Wordmapper software.

Conclusions

This methodology resulted in data presented uniquely in both a visual map and narrative. These data were richer than if a single modality had been used. These data highlighted specific contextual factors that were related to the location of needle debris, which created opportunities for nursing interventions to support people experiencing vulnerability.

The impact of whole of patient nursing assessment frameworks on hospital inpatients: A scoping literature review

Abstract

Introduction

A comprehensive patient assessment is essential for safe patient care. Patient assessment frameworks for nurses are generally restricted to patients who already have altered vital signs and are at risk of deterioration, or to specific risks or body systems such as falls, pressure injury and the Glasgow Coma Score. Comprehensive and structured evidence-based nursing assessment frameworks that consider the whole patient and extend beyond vital signs, specific risks and single systems are not routinely used in inpatient settings but are important to establish early risks for patient deterioration.

Aim

The aim of this review was to identify nursing assessment tools or frameworks used to holistically assess hospitalized patients and to identify the impact of these tools on patient and health service outcomes.

Methods

A scoping literature review was conducted. Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), ProQuest Dissertations and Thesis, Embase and Scopus were databases used in the search. The initial search was conducted in August 2021 and repeated in November 2022. No date parameters were set. The Participants, Concept, Context (PCC) framework was used to guide the development of the research question and consolidate inclusion and exclusion criteria. The PRISMA-ScR Checklist Item was followed to ensure a methodologically sound checklist was used.

Results

Ten primary research studies evaluating six nursing assessment frameworks were included. Of the five nursing assessment frameworks, none were explicitly designed for general ward nursing, but rather the emergency department or specific patient cohorts, such as oncology. Four studies reported on reliability and/or validity; two reported on patient outcomes and four on staff satisfaction.

Conclusion

Evidence-based nursing patient assessment frameworks for use in general inpatient wards are lacking. Existing assessment tools are largely designed for specific patient cohorts, specific body systems or the already deteriorating patient.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

A framework to enable a structured approach to patient assessment in this environment is needed for patient safety, consistency in assessment, nursing staff enablement and confidence to escalate care. Routine systematic nursing assessment could also aid timely patient escalation.

Impact

What problem did the study address? This study addresses the lack of evidence-based nursing assessment frameworks for use in hospitalized patients. The impact of this is that it highlights the need for an evidence-based, whole of patient assessment framework for use by nurses for patients admitted to a ward environment.

What were the main findings? This review identified limited comprehensive, patient assessment frameworks for use in general ward inpatient areas. Those identified were not validated for this patient cohort and are aimed at patients already deteriorating.

Where and on whom will the research have an impact? This review has the potential to impact future research and patient care. It highlights that most research is focussed on processes to detect and escalate care for the already deteriorating patient. There is a need for an evidence-based routine nursing assessment framework for patients admitted to a ward environment to promote positive patient outcomes and prevent deterioration.

Patient and Public Contribution

This review contributes to existing knowledge of nursing patient assessment frameworks, yet it also highlights several gaps. Currently, there are no known, validated, holistic, structured nursing patient assessment frameworks for use in general ward inpatient settings. However, areas that do use such assessment frameworks (e.g. the emergency department) have shown positive patient outcomes and staff usability. Hospitalized ward patients would benefit from routine, structured nursing assessments targeting positive patient outcomes prior to the onset of deterioration.

Characteristics and effectiveness of mentoring programmes for specialized and advanced practice nurses: A systematic review

Abstract

Aims

(1) To identify, evaluate and summarize evidence about the objectives and characteristics of mentoring programmes for specialized nurses (SNs) or nurse navigators (NNs) and advanced practice nurses (APNs) and (2) to identify the effectiveness of these programmes.

Design

A systematic review based on PRISMA guidelines.

Data Sources

From November 2022 until 7 December 2022, four databases were searched: PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL and The Cochrane Library.

Review Methods

Study selection was performed independently by two researchers. Disagreements were discussed until consensus was reached. Data extraction was undertaken for included studies. Data synthesis was conducted using narrative analysis. Quality appraisal was performed using the Critical Appraisal Skill Programme (CASP) and Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT).

Results

Twelve articles were included, all of which focused on mentoring programmes for APNs. Different forms of mentorship (e.g. (in)formal mentorship, work shadowing, workshops) were reported. Studies reported positive outcomes on job retention (n = 5), job satisfaction (n = 6), skills improvement (n = 7), satisfaction with the programme (n = 7) and confidence improvement (n = 4) among participants of mentoring programmes.

Conclusion

There is a lack of uniformity and consistency in various elements of mentoring programmes. Further research is needed to develop mentoring programmes for both APNs and SNs/NNs in a systematic and theoretically underpinned manner. It is necessary to establish a thorough evaluation methodology, preferably using a mixed methods design that includes both a qualitative process evaluation and a comprehensive outcome evaluation using validated questionnaires, taking into account the NN/APN, the interprofessional team and organizational level.

Impact

The synthesis of evidence may be useful to organizations developing and implementing mentoring programmes for both SN/NN and APN. The development of a mentoring programme for nursing experts should be considered a complex intervention that requires theoretical frameworks and contextual considerations.

No Patient or Public Contribution

Not applicable, as no patients or public were involved.

Re‐imagining of an undergraduate, second‐degree entry, accelerated nursing program's curriculum utilizing a postmodern, learner‐centred lens and a concept‐based framework

Abstract

Introduction

It is necessary to re-imagine nursing curriculums utilizing a postmodern approach, as outdated teacher-centred methods of nursing education with emphasis on memorization versus critical thinking no longer meet the needs of the contemporary learner and the current challenges of the healthcare environment. There is an explicit need to redesign nursing curriculums that are future-oriented, adaptive and flexible and serve the learners' best interests.

Background

Distilled from a decade of teaching experience in an undergraduate, second-degree entry, accelerated nursing program, this paper describes the construction of a learner-centred, postmodern, concept-based nursing curriculum that aims to foster learners' inquiry skills, critical thinking, problem-solving, and experiential learning—all which develop learners' autonomy, self-direction, and lifelong learning. The objective is to foster learners' transformational and emancipatory learning and metacognition.

Discussion

An extensive review of the current trends, contemporary nursing knowledge for the past decade (2013–2023), and seminal literature on theories and frameworks paralleled with the review of current and future trends in Canadian and global health care, including the socio-economic, politico and environmental contexts, led to the formulation of a concept-based curriculum. Grounded in the constructivist paradigm, the curriculum applies interperetivist, critical, feminist, and indigenous lenses. The Strength-Based Nursing framework was selected as the core guiding framework. The curriculum's four curricular themes and foundational pillars were adopted directly from the framework to provide a starting point for concept development. These initial themes were then juxtaposed with relevant nursing, and social theories, policies, and frameworks, ensuring a robust coverage of modern nursing knowledge and allowing for the core concepts of the curriculum to emerge. A total of 21 concepts and 192 sub-concepts were developed.

Conclusion

Implications for future practice require nursing educators to receive support and professional development opportunities in developing skills and confidence in entering a classroom as co-learners and facilitators.

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