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Anteayer Journal of Advanced Nursing

Experiences of patients with advanced COPD affiliated to a cross‐sectorial outgoing lung team: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aim

To explore experiences of patients affiliated to a cross-sectorial outgoing lung team.

Background

The outgoing lung team consisted of respiratory nurses from the hospital and community nurses. The lung team offered 24/7 help to patients with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) through visits and/or treatment in the patients' home. Affiliation to the lung team reduced both hospitalizations and length of hospital stay due to acute exacerbation of COPD. However, based on questionnaires on health-related quality of life, no significant differences were found between patients affiliated to the lung team and patients receiving usual care.

Design

A qualitative interview study.

Methods

In total, 16 patients, aged 61–88 years were interviewed between February 2019 and July 2021. They had been affiliated to the outgoing lung team for 1–3 years. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in the patients' home and audio-recorded after informed consent was obtained. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed, inspired by systematic text condensation by Malterud.

Findings

Four themes emerged from the analysis: (1) feeling safe, (2) improvements in living with COPD, (3) avoiding hospitalization and (4) satisfied with staying at home.

Conclusion

Affiliation to the cross-sectorial outgoing lung team gave the patients peace of mind and improved their ability to live with advanced COPD. The patients preferred contacting the lung team because they could stay at home and receive treatment, and thus avoid hospitalization.

Impact

The findings from this study support that municipalities should consider implementing an outgoing lung team, as it has the potential to bring several benefits, including improving patient self-management.

Reporting Method

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

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients were interviewed. Additionally, no patient or public contributed to the design or conduction of the study, analysis, or interpretation of the data.

How clinicians make decisions for patient management plans in telehealth

Abstract

Aim

This systematic integrative literature review explores how clinicians make decisions for patient management plans in telehealth.

Background

Telehealth is a modality of care that has gained popularity due to the development of digital technology and the COVID-19 pandemic. It is recognized that telehealth, compared to traditional clinical settings, carries a higher risk to patients due to its virtual characteristics. Even though the landscape of healthcare service is increasingly moving towards virtual systems, the decision-making process in telehealth remains not fully understood.

Design

A systematic integrative review.

Data Sources

Databases include CINAHL, APA PsycInfo, Academic Search Complete, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar.

Review Methods

This systematic integrative review method was informed by Whittemore and Knafl (2005). The databases were initially searched with keywords in November 2022 and then repeated in October 2023. Thematic synthesis was conducted to analyse and synthesize the data.

Results

The search identified 382 articles. After screening, only 10 articles met the eligibility criteria and were included. Five studies were qualitative, one quantitative and four were mixed methods. Five main themes relevant to decision-making processes in telehealth were identified: characteristics of decision-making in telehealth, patient factor, clinician factor, CDSS factor and external influencing factor.

Conclusions

The decision-making process in telehealth is a complicated cognitive process influenced by multi-faceted components, including patient factors, clinician factors, external influencing factors and technological factors.

Impact

Telehealth carries higher risk and uncertainty than face-to-face encounters. CDSS, rather than bringing unification and clarity, seems to bring more divergence and ambiguity. Some of the clinical reasoning processes in telehealth remain unknown and need to be verbalized and made transparent, to prepare junior clinicians with skills to minimize risks associated with telehealth.

Patient or Public Contribution

Not applicable.

How do patients with rheumatoid arthritis perceive their self‐care and self‐care support? A mixed‐method study

Abstract

Aim

To explore self-care and needs and preferences towards tailored self-care support of patients with rheumatoid arthritis at the outpatient clinic.

Design

A sequential explanatory mixed method design.

Methods

The Self-Care of Chronic Illness Inventory questionnaire, two focus groups and six semi-structured interviews were conducted between November 2021 and April 2023. Questionnaires of 107 patients were descriptively analysed. Subsequently, 11 patients and 2 healthcare professionals participated in the focus groups and 6 patients in the interviews, which were thematically analysed.

Results

Quantitative and qualitative data corresponded and showed that patients perform various self-care activities at an adequate level and have strategies to exert control and reduce symptoms. One key theme emerged: ‘Not only being the person with rheumatoid arthritis’ (RA) as patients primarily aim to get on with their lives. Nine subthemes covered self-care activities for maintaining health including staying physically active, finding the right medication and dose and adapting their diet. Patients differed in how they self-monitored their symptoms. Recognizing symptoms and finding strategies to manage symptoms included the process of body listening in which patient seek and try different strategies to find what works for them and incorporate routines. Patients experienced positive effects of a warm or cold environment. Patients felt the need for practical and emotional support from others and preferred having credible information.

Conclusion

Patients perform adequate self-care including a diversity of self-care activities to get on with their lives and have strategies to reduce and control the symptoms and impact of RA.

Implications

Tailoring self-care support to patients' individual needs and preferences is necessary to help patients cope with the erratic nature of the disease and maintain their quality of life. Healthcare providers need to provide practical and emotional support and use credible information to allow patients to make self-care decisions to manage their lives.

Reporting Methods

Quantitative finding are reported according to the STROBE guidelines and qualitative finding are reported according to the COREQ guidelines.

What Does This Paper Add

Patients perform various self-care activities at an adequate level and have strategies to exert control and reduce symptoms. Patients primarily aim to continue their lives and not being seen as the person with rheumatoid arthritis. Healthcare professionals need to provide practical and emotional support and use credible information to inform patients' self-care decision-making.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Evaluation of the implementation of advanced practice nursing roles in France: A multiple case study

Abstract

Aims

The aims of the study were to describe the processes used to introduce advanced practice nursing roles and factors that facilitated or hindered role implementation, examine the time advanced practice nurses (APNs) spend in role activities and how these activities relate to domains of advanced practice nursing and examine how implementation processes influenced APN integration within healthcare teams.

Design

A multiple case study was conducted.

Methods

Five cases were included, representing the four population areas approved for advanced practice nursing in France. Data were collected from January to March 2021 using observation, interview and document analysis methods. Data were examined using thematic analysis.

Results

Participants included APNs (n = 5), nurses/allied health providers (n = 5), physicians (n = 5), managers (n = 4) and decision-makers (n = 4). Stakeholder engagement and leadership provided by decision-makers, managers, physicians and APNs facilitated role implementation. Poor stakeholder role understanding, uncertain role funding, and the COVID-19 pandemic hindered role implementation. APNs spent the most time in clinical activities. Participants perceived the integration of APNs within the healthcare team and their impact on patient care to be positive.

Conclusion

Stakeholder engagement and organizational and APN leadership facilitated the implementation of the roles, especially related to team-based patient care. Further efforts are needed to strengthen APN involvement in non-clinical activities and address role barriers.

Implications for nursing and patient care

Systematic and system-wide approaches are needed to improve role clarity, role autonomy and health systems integration of APNs. Research should examine patient perspectives about APNs in France.

Impact

The results highlight how policies can create favourable conditions for advanced practice nursing role implementation in France. Internationally, this study serves as a reminder to APNs and nurse leaders about the strategies for and importance of implementation evaluation to support the optimal development of advanced practice nursing roles.

Reporting Method

The study reporting followed the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research.

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.

Patient evaluation of gynaecological information provision and preferences

Abstract

Aim

To evaluate gynaecological patients' preferences and satisfaction regarding information provision, exploring enablers and barriers to information access.

Design

A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used.

Methods

A total of 293 women accessing gynaecological services responded to the survey. Quantitative analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics. Content analysis was conducted on qualitative data.

Results

Health professionals were the most common and preferred sources of gynaecological health information. Enablers to information provision included positive communication strategies by health professionals, participants having prior knowledge and doing their own research. Despite its widespread availability, only 24.2% of women preferred the internet as an information source. Poor communication and inadequate information provision were identified as barriers to information access. Statistically significant associations were identified between location of residence, education level, year of birth, diagnostic group and health information preferences. Recommendations from women included improved communication strategies, system changes and provision of individualized information.

Conclusion

Health professionals are central to women accessing information about gynaecological diagnoses. Areas for improvement include communication strategies, facilitating access to internet-based resources for information and consideration of women's preferences when providing health information.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

Consumer co-design of gynaecological health information and communication training for health professionals is recommended. Improved communication and facilitated use of internet-based resources may improve women's understanding of information.

Impact

This study explored gynaecological patients' preferences and satisfaction regarding information provision, exploring enablers and barriers to information access. It was found that gynaecological patients preferred individualized information provided to them directly by health professionals and despite its widespread availability, the internet is an underutilized health information resource. These findings are applicable to health professionals and patients utilizing tertiary gynaecological health services in Australia but may be generalized if demographic data aligns with other jurisdictions.

Reporting Method

The STROBE reporting method was used in the preparation of the manuscript.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Healthcare professionals' digital health competence profiles and associated factors: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Aims

To identify healthcare professionals' digital health competence profiles and explore associated factors to digital health competence in healthcare settings.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Methods

Data were collected from 817 healthcare professionals from nine organizations with an electronic questionnaire by using Digital Health Competence instrument (42 items) and Aspects Associated with Digital Health instrument (15 items) between 1st March and 31st July 2022. K-means clustering was used to describe digital health competence profiles. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to explore associated factors.

Results

Analysis revealed three digital health competence profiles: A – high competence (n = 336), B – intermediate competence (n = 352) and C – low competence (n = 129). Between the profiles, digital health competence showed significant differences (p < .001). Recent graduation year, working in outpatient environments and leader or specialist position were associated with higher digital health competence. Organizational practices and the influence from colleagues improved competence in human-centred remote counselling, digital solutions as part of work, competence in utilizing and evaluating digital solutions and ethical competence. Support from management improved digital solutions as part of work and ethical competence.

Conclusion

Nursing and allied health professionals working in other than outpatient environments should be specifically acknowledged when digital health competence development initiatives are designed and targeted. The positive influence from colleagues could be harnessed by enhancing their involvement in digital health competence development methods such as orientation, mentoring or coaching. Additionally, managers should take a stronger role in supporting different areas of digital health competence.

Impact

This was the first study that explored healthcare professionals' digital health competence profiles and associated factors. The detection of healthcare professionals' digital health competence profiles guides the development of digital health education according to different needs in healthcare environments.

Reporting Method

The study has adhered to STROBE guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

The relevance of the contribution of psychoneuroendocrinoimmunology and psychology of reasoning and decision making to nursing science: A discursive paper

Abstract

Aim

Patients' death or adverse events appear to be associated with poor healthcare decision-making. This might be due to an inability to have an adequate representation of the problem or of the connections among problem-related elements. Changing how a problem is formulated can reduce biases in clinical reasoning. The purpose of this article is to explore the possible contributions of psychoneuroendocrinoimmunology (PNEI) and psychology of reasoning and decision-making (PRDM) to support a new nursing theoretical frame.

Design

Discursive paper.

Method

This article discusses the main assumptions about nursing and nurses' ability to face patient's problems, suggesting a new approach that integrates knowledge from PNEI and PRDM. While PNEI explains the complexity of systems, highlighting the importance of systems connections in affecting health, PRDM underlines the importance of the informative context in creating a mental representation of the problem. Furthermore, PRDM suggests the need to pay attention to information that is not immediately explicit and its connections.

Conclusion

Nursing recognizes the patient–nurse relationship as the axiom that governs care. The integration of PNEI and PRDM in nursing theoretics allows the expansion of the axiom by providing essential elements to read a new type of relationship: the relationship among information. PNEI explains the relationships between biological systems and the psyche and between the whole individual and the environment; PRDM provides tools for the nurse's analytical thinking system to correctly process information and its connections.

Impact on Nursing Practice

A theoretical renewal is mandatory to improve nursing reasoning and nursing priority identification. Integrating PNEI and PRDM into nursing theoretics will modify the way professionals approach patients, reducing cognitive biases and medical errors.

No Patient or Public Contribution

There was no patient or public involvement in the design or writing of this discursive article.

Struggling in the dehumanized world of COVID—An exploratory mixed‐methods study of frontline healthcare workers' experiences

Abstract

Aim

To explore healthcare workers' experiences of the changed caring reality during the COVID-19 pandemic in Sweden.

Design

An online fully mixed-methods design.

Methods

A web-based self-reported questionnaire with fixed and open-ended answers collected data from March to April 2021, analysed in three steps. First, free-text questions were analysed by qualitative content analysis. Then quantitative linear regression analyses using models covering stress and coping mechanisms were conducted. Finally, a meta-inference of qualitative and quantitative data emerged a new comprehensive understanding. The COREQ guidelines were used for reporting.

Results

Meta-inferenced results of quantitative and qualitative findings show the pandemic was a traumatic experience for healthcare workers. Main theme; When work became a frightening experience in a dehumanized reality, comprised four themes: Entering unprepared into a frightful, incomprehensible world; Sacrificing moral values and harbouring dilemmas in isolation; Lack of clear management; and Reorient in togetherness and find meaning in a changed reality. Qualitative results comprised four categories; Working in a dehumanized world; Living in betrayal of ones' own conscience; Lack of structure in a chaotic time and Regaining vitality together. Subdimensions comprehensibility and meaningfulness were associated significantly with post-traumatic stress disorder in multiple regression analysis. In multiple regression analysis, sense of coherence was the most prominent coping strategy.

Conclusions

Forcing oneself to perform beyond one's limit, sacrificing moral values and lacking management was a traumatic experience to healthcare workers during the pandemic. Reorienting as a way of coping was possible in togetherness with colleagues. There is an urgency of interventions to meet the needs among healthcare workers who took on a frontline role during the COVID-19 pandemic and to prevent mental health illness in future crisis.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Summary

The pandemic outbreak exposed frontline healthcare workers to unparallelled stress shown as negative for their mental health in several meta-analyses and systematic reviews. In-depth understanding on experiences and how symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder relate to coping mechanisms have been scarcely explored. This study contributes to understanding on healthcare workers' experiences and the relation between lower sense of coherence and increased risk of developing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Implications for Practice/Policy

This study might guide how to prepare for resilience in future emergencies.

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.

Invasive device‐associated skin complications and mechanical dysfunctions in paediatric healthcare: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract

Aim

This study aimed to estimate the proportion and rate of skin complications and mechanical dysfunction associated with indwelling invasive devices in paediatric healthcare.

Design

This systematic review is reported in accordance with Cochrane standards for randomized controlled trials and the Meta-analysis of Observation Studies in Epidemiology for cohort studies.

Data Sources

MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane CENTRAL, clinical trial registries, and unpublished study databases were searched.

Review Methods

Cohort studies and trials published from January 2011 to June 2022, including (1) indwelling invasive devices, (2) paediatric participants admitted to a hospital, (3) reporting post-insertion device-associated skin complication and/or mechanical dysfunction, and (4) published in English, were included. Device-associated skin complication and mechanical dysfunction (infiltration, leakage, occlusion/blockage, dislodgement/malposition, breakage and others). Pooled proportion and incidence rate per 1000 device days are reported.

Results

This review synthesized 114 studies (30,782 devices; 1,635,649 device-days). Skin complications were reported in 40 studies, but none exclusively reported individual device-related pressure injuries. Mechanical dysfunctions were well-reported for central venous access devices, peripheral intravenous catheters, nasogastric/gastric tubes and peritoneal dialysis catheters but less for arterial catheters, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and ventricular assist devices.

Conclusions

This systematic review highlights the need for standardized definitions and reporting methods to better surveil and benchmark device-related complications, particularly for understudied device types. Device-related pressure injuries were not reported in any of the included studies, and all devices except for vascular access devices require standardized reporting of complications.

Impact

Despite the widespread use of invasive devices, comprehensive data on their prevalence, utility, and associated paediatric complications is limited. This review identified prevalent skin complications, occlusions and dislodgments in children with devices, underscoring the need for standardized reporting to enhance surveillance and understanding of paediatric device-related complications.

Reporting Method

MOOSE (Meta-analyses Of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) Checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.

Views of family members on using video calls during the hospital admission of a patient: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background

Utilization of video calls on hospital wards to facilitate involvement of and communication with family members is still limited. A deeper understanding of the needs and expectations of family members regarding video calls on hospital wards is necessary, to identify potential barriers and facilitate video calls in practice.

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the views, expectations and needs of a patient's family members regarding the use of video calls between family members, patients and healthcare professionals, during the patient's hospital admission.

Methods

A qualitative study was carried out. Semi-structured interviews with family members of patients admitted to two hospitals were conducted between February and May 2022. Family members of patients admitted to the surgical, internal medicine and gynaecological wards were recruited.

Results

Twelve family members of patients participated. Family members stated that they perceive video calls as a supplemental option and prefer live visits during hospital admission. They expected video calls to initiate additional moments of contact with healthcare professionals, e.g. to join in medical rounds. When deploying video calls, family members mentioned that adequate instruction and technical support by nurses should be available.

Conclusion

Family members considered video calls valuable when visiting is not possible or to participate in medical rounds or other contacts with healthcare professionals outside of visiting hours.

Implications

Family members need to be supported in options and use of video calls on hospital wards. Additional knowledge about actual participation in care through video calls is needed as well as the effect on patient, family and healthcare professional outcomes.

Impact

Using video calls on hospital wards can provide family members with flexible alternatives for contact and promote family involvement.

Reporting Method

COREQ guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

Family members of patients admitted to hospital have contributed by sharing their perspectives in interviews.

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

Family members perceive additional value from the use of video calls on hospital wards. For family, use of video calls needs to be facilitated with clear instruction materials and support.

Trial and Protocol Registration

Amsterdam UMC Medical Ethics Review Committee (ref number W21_508 # 21.560).

Exploring older people's experiences of the interpersonal care relationship between nurses and patients during hospitalization in the pandemic period: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aim

This article presents the findings of a qualitative study focusing on the experiences of people aged over 70 years in the interpersonal nurse–patient care relationship in hospital settings during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim was to analyse different aspects of this relationship, including nurses' behaviour and caring attitudes, the person-centred model of care, patients' involvement in their own care and communication in the hospital context.

Design

An exploratory qualitative study was conducted on the basis of an interpretative framework.

Methods

Six focus groups were conducted. A total of 34 participants were purposively recruited from three nursing homes in Spain, Italy and Portugal. Specific inclusion criteria were used to select participants.

Results

Five main categories were identified. Analysis revealed the importance of empathy and sensitivity in caring relationships, as well as the need for personalized and patient-centred care. The importance of effective communication and recognition of ageist behaviour by professionals was highlighted. In addition, independent of the pandemic, situational factors in the hospital environment were identified that influence the interpersonal care relationship.

Conclusions

The study highlights the need to promote a person-centred model of care that takes into account the specific preferences and needs of older people. This is achieved by identifying elements of the interpersonal nurse–patient relationship. In addition to highlighting the disparity of opinion regarding an active or passive role in self-care and decision making, the importance of addressing ageism and improving communication is emphasized.

What problem did the study address?

The importance of the patient–nurse relationship in hospital care has been highlighted in previous studies. Critical elements of the patient care experience have been identified as empathy and effective communication. Ageism in healthcare has been recognized as a potential barrier to patient-centred care.

What were the key findings?

The main findings highlight the importance of empathy and personalized care, emphasize the importance of effective communication and address ageist behaviours in the nurse–patient relationship.

Where and who will the research impact?

By highlighting the need for person-centred care and improved communication strategies, particularly in the context of caring for older patients during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, this research will have an impact on healthcare professionals, policy makers and carers.

Reporting Method

The COREQ guideline was used.

Patient or public contribution

This study adopted a collaborative approach to ensure that patient perspectives were integrated into the research process. We organized regular focus groups. Patients were actively involved in shaping the research questions, refining the study design and interpreting the emerging findings. Their valuable input helped us to understand the nuances of their experience and to prioritize the aspects that were critical to their well-being. In addition, their insights guided the development of practical recommendations aimed at improving the interpersonal care relationship between nurses and patients in hospital settings, ensuring that their voices were heard and reflected in the proposed interventions. This patient-centred approach fostered a sense of empowerment among the participants. It reinforced the notion that their experiences and opinions are integral to shaping healthcare practice.

Self‐supporting wound care mobile applications for nurses: A scoping review

Abstract

Aim

This study provides an overview of the literature to identify and map the types of available evidence on self-supporting mobile applications used by nurses in wound care regarding their development, evaluation and outcomes for patients, nurses and the healthcare system.

Design

Scoping review.

Review Method

Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review methodology was used.

Data Sources

A search was performed using MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL (via EBSCO), Web of Science, LiSSa (Littérature Scientifique en Santé), Cochrane Wounds, Érudit and grey literature, between April and October 2022, updated in April 2023, to identify literature published in English and French.

Results

Eleven studies from 14 publications met the inclusion criteria. Mostly descriptive, the included studies presented mobile applications that nurses used, among other things, to assess wounds and support clinical decision-making. The results described how nurses were iteratively involved in the process of developing and evaluating mobile applications using various methods such as pilot tests. The three outcomes most frequently reported by nurses were as follows: facilitating care, documentation on file and access to evidence-based data.

Conclusion

The potential of mobile applications in wound care is within reach. Nurses are an indispensable player in the successful development of these tools.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

If properly developed and evaluated, mobile applications for wound care could enhance nursing practices and improve patient care. The development of ethical digital competence must be ensured during initial training and continued throughout the professional journey.

Impact

We identified a dearth of studies investigating applications that work without Internet access. More research is needed on the development of mobile applications in wound care and their possible impact on nursing practice in rural areas and the next generation of nurses.

Reporting Method

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis Extension for Scoping Review guidelines were used.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Is this to be another project that fizzles out? Using the i‐PARIHS framework to evaluate implementation of a mentoring programme

Abstract

It is well-known that the implementation of evidence into clinical practice is complex and challenging. The integrated Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (i-PARIHS) framework conceptualizes successful implementation of evidence into practice. As the implementation of the mentoring programme proved to be a challenge, it seemed valuable to retrospectively study the implementation process using a framework like the i-PARIHS.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate implementation of a multifaceted mentoring programme for bedside nurses using the i-PARIHS framework, to identify factors that influenced the implementation.

Design

A secondary analysis of qualitative data using the i-PARIHS framework as the theoretical lens.

Method

A directed content analysis was performed, driven theoretically by the i-PARIHS framework. The analysis focused separately on (a) characteristics of the innovation and (b) successful and hindering factors in the implementation process.

Results

The results showed that successful factors influencing implementation of the mentoring programme included supportive and actively involved formal leaders and supervisors at the unit level. A major hindering factor was lack of resources in the form of personnel, time and money. A lack of facilitators, particularly experienced facilitators, throughout the organization hindered implementation. The i-PARIHS framework offered a structured how-to guide to identify factors that influenced the implementation process.

Conclusion

Implementation of the mentoring programme was a challenge for the organization. Investment into implementation should continue, with a more structured facilitation process. A structured and prioritized management system, including supportive leadership at the unit level, should be established by the hospital board.

Implications for the profession

There is a need for experienced facilitators throughout the organization. This is crucial to achieve sustainability in the mentoring programme and ensure that the large investments of staff resources and money do not fizzle out.

Impact

What problem did the study address?

Implementing a mentoring programme for nurses in a large university hospital proved to be a challenge. Therefore, it seemed valuable to retrospectively study the implementation process using a framework like the i-PARIHS.

What were the main findings?

A lack of facilitators, particularly experienced facilitators, throughout the organization hindered the implementation. The i-PARIHS framework offered a structured how-to guide to identify factors that influenced the implementation process.

Where and on whom will the research have an impact?

Our findings are important for leaders on all levels in a hospital setting, including the hospital board, heads of departments and nurse managers.

Reporting Method

Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ): a 32-item checklist for interviews and focus groups is used.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Cultural acceptability of STI screening guidelines and sexual positioning assessments among black sexual minority men

Abstract

Aim

To identify attitudes towards HIV/STI screening guidelines and explore the acceptability of assessing sexual positioning practices among Black sexual minority men (SMM).

Background

Risks for HIV/STIs vary by sexual positioning practices. However, clinicians and Black SMM do not always discuss sexuality with each other. Therefore, HIV/STI screening and testing remain suboptimal.

Design

Qualitative study using focus groups.

Methods

Data were obtained from 12 focus groups and one in-depth interview conducted in Baltimore, MD among HIV-negative Black SMM between October 2019 and May 2020 (N = 39). Groups were stratified into three age categories: 18–24, 25–34 and 35+. Participants were given the “5 P's” from the CDC's 2015 Sexual History Screening Guidelines and asked to discuss attitudes towards existing questions regarding sexual positioning practices. Themes were identified using an electronic pile sorting approach.

Results

Most identified as homosexual/gay/same gender-loving (68%), were employed (69%) and single (66%). Additionally, 34% had ever been diagnosed with an STI, of whom 38% had a history of repeated STI acquisition in their lifetime. Participants across age groups said clinicians should use the words “top” and “bottom” to demonstrate cultural familiarity and build trust. Some said that screening for sexual positioning was unnecessary and intrusive; others said that questions should be justified. Younger men wanted clinicians to ask questions in ways that make them feel cared for.

Discussion

Guidelines should include language for clinicians to use culturally specific language and better ways to prepare Black SMM patients for screening.

Impact to Nursing Practice

Some Black SMM will not discuss sexual positioning practices without clinicians' demonstration of cultural understanding and respect. Screening should incorporate culturally responsive language, justification and convey care.

Reporting Method

Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ).

No Patient or Public Contribution

There was no patient or public involvement in the design or drafting of this discursive paper.

The role of the clinical nurse specialist in stoma care: A modified Delphi consensus

Abstract

Introduction

The role of the clinical nurse specialist is complex but is defined differently across the world. The role of clinical nurse specialist stoma care is undefined and it is uncertain what aspects of the role are included in the general day-to-day working role.

Aims

The aim was to gain consensus opinion to answer the research question: ‘What is the role of the clinical nurse specialist in stoma care?’

Design

Delphi consensus.

Methods

Previous data gained from a scoping review and expert consultation was utilized to form role statements. At a UK conference the 13 statements and 173 sub-categories were voted upon. Consensus was agreed if 75% of voters voted agree or strongly agree. Two stages of voting occurred with results from the first vote being shared in the second voting session.

Results

All 13 statement and most (150/193) statement sub-categories reached consensus, with 20 sub-categories added during voting session one.

Conclusions

The four pillars of advanced practice were met by the 13 statements with clinical and education reaching higher consensus and agreement than leadership/management and research. The results of the consensus study provide a clearer articulation of the clinical nurse specialist stoma care role, which is complex and multifaceted which has not been described previously.

Implications for Practice

Consideration of role evolution is made possible, to gain a greater expertise in the scope of practice it is necessary to include prescribing, management and research which could improve service delivery and optimize patient outcomes. There was no patient or public contribution, which in hindsight would have potentially improved the process but it was considered that patients might not recognize the full role of the nurse, understanding only aspects of the role that were patient-centred.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patients or public were involved in any aspect of this paper—in hindsight this might have been useful.

The work of palliative care from the perspectives of district nurses: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aim

To explore the work of palliative care from the perspectives of district nurses with a focus on the strategies they use to achieve positive outcomes for patients.

Design

An exploratory descriptive qualitative study.

Methods

A combination of group and individual interviews using semi-structured interviewing were used to explore district nurses' views of providing palliative care across two large urban community nursing services.

Results

Sixteen district nurse participants were interviewed. Three key themes were identified: “Getting what was needed” involved finding solutions, selling a story and establishing relationships. District nurses sought ways to “Stay involved” recognizing the benefit of delaying discharge for some patients. “Completing a nursing task” was a way of managing time constraints and a form of self-protection from having difficult conversations.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of understanding the contextual nature of the practice setting in relation to the provision of palliative care. In doing so, it has revealed the strategies district nurses use to overcome the challenges associated with providing palliative care within a generalist workload.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

District nurses experience a tension between managing high patient workloads and remaining patient centred in palliative care. Being task focused is a way of remaining safe while managing a high volume of work and is not always a negative factor in the care they provide. However, focusing on a task while at the same time addressing other unmet needs requires a set of skills that less experienced nurses may not have.

Impact

Palliative care education alone will not improve the quality of palliative care provided by generalist community district nurses. The practice context is an important factor to take into consideration when supporting the integration of palliative care in district nursing.

No Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution was made to this study.

Reporting Method

We have adhered to the relevant EQUATOR guidelines and used the COREQ reporting method.

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