To explore the experiences of nurses transitioning from a clinical ward to a newly established respiratory intermediate care unit (IMCU).
A qualitative descriptive approach was adopted to capture the lived experiences of redeployed nurses. This design was selected to address the research question: What are the initial experiences of nurses transitioning from general ward settings to a newly established IMCU for respiratory patients?
Two focus groups were conducted in June 2024, involving 14 purposefully selected registered nurses. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis framework, with the study reported in line with the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research.
The analysis revealed two interconnected themes reflecting the complexity of the redeployment experience. The first theme, ‘The introspection of waiting amidst change and readiness’, captures the emotional ambivalence nurses felt, characterised by anticipation, uncertainty and a perceived lack of preparedness. This phase was marked by concerns over clinical competence, fear of errors and the weight of new legal and ethical responsibilities. The second theme, ‘The road to organizational change with both driving forces and obstacles’, highlights nurses' concerns about physician readiness, feeling undervalued and limited involvement in planning. At the same time, nurses emphasised the importance of teamwork, structured preparation, experiential training and having the right equipment.
The study underscores the complexity of role transitions for nurses moving into semi-critical care settings like IMCUs. It reveals the need for targeted support strategies to reduce uncertainty and enhance role readiness.
To improve the redeployment experience and patient outcomes, healthcare organisations should prioritise structured training, tailored preceptorship programmes and inclusive decision-making processes. These measures can strengthen nurses' resilience, support workforce sustainability and ensure the delivery of high-quality, patient-centred care in intermediate care environments.
This study highlights the significant impact of inadequate preparation and communication on redeployed nurses' experiences in respiratory IMCUs, emphasising the need for structured training and supportive team dynamics. These findings can guide healthcare leaders, nurse managers and policymakers in developing evidence-based redeployment strategies that reduce anxiety, strengthen team cohesion and ultimately improve nurse adaptation and patient care in semi-critical settings.
We used the SRQR guidelines for reporting qualitative studies.
No patient or public contribution.
To describe the point prevalence of cognitive impairment in hospitalised adults and evaluate the association with care needs and perceived risks of complications.
Multi-site cross-sectional study on a single day in May 2023.
Trained clinician auditors screened adult inpatients in acute medical, surgical, oncology, geriatric, mental health, convalescent, and rehabilitation wards for cognitive impairment using the 4AT in seven healthcare facilities and recorded need for support with basic activities of daily living, incontinence, and perceived risks of complications (falls, pressure injuries, and malnutrition). Data were summarised and compared across 4AT categories, and the strength of association between 4AT and each outcome was estimated using multivariable regression models.
Data were available for 1145 inpatients on 68 wards (mean age 68 years [SD = 18], 583 [58.9%] female, 449 [39.2%] on acute medical units). Cognitive impairment (4AT of 1 or more) was identified in 482 (42.1%) participants. Participants with 4AT 1–3 had 2.0–3.6 times the odds of need for supervision or assistance with activities of daily living, while those with 4AT 4 or more had 2.9–5.3 times the odds of need for assistance.
Cognitive impairment is very common in adult inpatients and is associated with significantly higher physical care needs.
Hospital care models must support staff to address the higher care needs in people with cognitive impairment to protect a large patient group from hospital-acquired harm.
No patient or public contribution.
This study adheres to the STROBE reporting guidelines.
The aim of this study was to explore the follow-up needs of patients with diabetic foot ulcers.
A qualitative descriptive study was conducted, guided by Engel's biopsychosocial model.
Purposive sampling was used to recruit 17 patients with diabetic foot ulcers of Wagner grade ≥ 1. These patients had received care in the Endocrinology and Metabolism Department or the Wound Clinic of a tertiary hospital in Xi'an, China. Guided by the biopsychosocial model, individual face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted between April and July 2024. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.
Nine themes were identified. In the biological domain, patients reported needs for disease care and lifestyle modification. In the psychological domain, they highlighted the importance of emotional coping support and building trust with healthcare providers. In the social domain, patients expressed needs for personalised follow-up, equitable access to healthcare, financial support, community assistance, and management of family caregiving role conflicts.
This study identified biological, psychological, and social follow-up needs among patients with diabetic foot ulcers, highlighting the importance of holistic follow-up to promote recovery and improve quality of life after discharge.
Nurses should assess and address the biological, psychological, and social follow-up needs of patients with diabetic foot ulcers after discharge, providing tailored care to promote ulcer healing and prevent recurrence.
This study was reported in accordance with the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist.
None.