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Patient Preferences for Cancer Nurses as Care Providers: A Systematic Review of Discrete Choice Experiments

ABSTRACT

Background

Limited literature has focused on people with cancers' preference for care providers in scenarios where trade-offs may have to be made.

Aim

To report the results of a comprehensive search and synthesis of discrete choice experiments or best-worst scaling studies (± willingness to pay estimates) in scenarios involving cancer nurses, with a focus on: (1) preferred care provider; and (2) relative importance of attributes of care provision for people with cancer.

Methods

A search was conducted across: CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EconLit, Medline, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and Google Scholar for discrete choice experiments published between January and July 2025. Data were extracted and appraised by two authors. Results were narratively synthesised.

Results

Of 461 studies screened, 11 were included, published in Australia (n = 3), UK (n = 3), and China (n = 5) including people with breast (n = 4), gastric (n = 4), prostate (n = 1), or mixed cancers (n = 2). In six studies exploring scenarios of follow-up care (i.e., survivorship/surveillance), cancer medical specialists were the preferred care provider, followed by cancer nurses, and then general practitioners. In four of the five studies of supportive care scenarios (i.e., diet and exercise advice, anxiety and depression screening), cancer nurses were the preferred care provider, followed by allied health professionals, then cancer medical specialists. The highest WTP estimate was $US226.15 for a medical specialist to provide follow-up care. For supportive care, the highest WTP was $US137.52 for a cancer nurse to provide diet-based lifestyle advice post-treatment for breast cancer.

Conclusion

Cancer nurses are highly valued by people with cancer, particularly for supportive care provision. Opportunities exist for an increase in cancer nurse specialists with expanded scope of practice, to support the preference of people with cancer to have cancer medical specialists, or cancer nurse specialists provide expert cancer follow-up care.

Patient or Public Contribution

Employees of a cancer patient advocacy group were involved in the design of the study, interpretation of the data, and the preparation of the manuscript. No patients were involved in this work. However, this systematic review prioritized patient voices by including studies that reported on the preferences of people with cancer.

Integrated knowledge translation (iKT) in preclinical research: A scoping review protocol

by Georgia Black, Reena Besa, Daniel Blumberger, Heather Brooks, Graham Collingridge, John Georgiou, Evelyn K. Lambe, Clement Ma, Bernadette Mdawar, Tarek K. Rajji, Sanjeev Sockalingam, Cara Sullivan, Quincy Vaz, Zhengbang Yao, Branka Agic

Introduction

Integrated knowledge translation (iKT) is a collaborative research approach that emphasizes the meaningful and active participation of knowledge users throughout the research process. Evidence suggests that integrated knowledge translation has the potential to increase the relevance, applicability, and use of research findings. This approach has been increasingly utilized in health research in recent years. However, the extent to which it has been applied in preclinical research and its effectiveness are unknown. To address this gap, we will conduct a scoping review to map the current use, potential benefits, and challenges of iKT in preclinical research.

Methods

Guided by a modified Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review framework, we will systematically search reference lists and key research databases including Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane CENTRAL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Web of Science. Peer-reviewed articles written or translated in English that focus on iKT or approaches that align with iKT within the context of preclinical research will be included. This review will be conducted as part of the Improving Neuroplasticity through Spaced Prefrontal intermittent-Theta-Beta-Stimulation REfinement in Depression (INSPiRE-D) project, which features preclinical research from mouse models to human work (Grant number CAMH File No.22-060). The project’s multidisciplinary team and knowledge user advisory committee will be consulted at key points throughout the scoping review process. A person with lived experience co-chairs the project advisory committee, co-authored this manuscript, and will be routinely included in the decision-making process of the scoping review.

Effectiveness of a home-based physical exercise intervention in patients with fragility fractures on functional independence and hospital readmissions: a protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Por: Segura-Ruiz · R. · Ruiz-Canete · M. · Munoz-Alonso · A. · Rivas-Cruces · C. · Serrano-Lazaro · P. · Armenteros-Ortiz · P. J. · Hidalgo-Lopezosa · P. · Lamberti · N. · Manfredini · F. · Lopez-Soto · P. J.
Introduction

Patients with fragility fractures are two times as likely to suffer future fractures as their peers who have not suffered a fracture. In addition, 40% of those who suffer fragility fractures do not recover their level of functioning in terms of activities of daily living after 1 year. The present study aims to verify the hypothesis that a semipersonalised home-based exercise intervention may improve patients’ independence and reduce the number of hospital admissions compared with usual care for a population that suffers fragility fractures.

Methods and analysis

This parallel-arm single-blinded randomised-controlled trial will take place at the University of Cordoba (Spain) between September 2022 and September 2024. Patients aged >50 years old who have undergone surgery for a fragility hip fracture and who were prefracture independent (Barthel index (BI)>60) will be invited to participate. Patients will be excluded if they present a different type of fracture, mild or greater cognitive impairment or contraindication to exercise training. Patients will then be randomised into exercise or usual care group. The former will receive a daily walking appointment (number of steps to be completed inside home, interspersed with sit-to-stand movements) with the total volume increasing weekly. The latter will receive the usual care. The outcomes, collected at baseline, at the end of training (3 months) and at follow-up (6 months) by blinded operators will include the BI and number of readmissions (primary outcomes) and quality of life, exercise capacity, strength, cognitive status, bone mineral density and laboratory biomarkers (secondary outcomes). Variables related to quality of life, cognitive status, laboratory markers and densitometry will also be analysed.

Ethics and dissemination

The research ethics committee of the province of Cordoba approved the project (number 326; date 28 July 2021). Patients who meet the eligibility criteria will receive a patient information document and the consent form and will be encouraged to ask any questions. The proposed research respects the fundamental principles of the Declaration of Helsinki, the Council of Europe Declaration on Human Rights and Biomedicine, the UNESCO Universal Declaration on the Human Genome and Human Rights, and the Oviedo Council on Human Rights and Biomedicine. The data obtained in this study will be confidential. They will be treated by the Organic Law 3/2018, of 5 December, on the Protection of Personal Data and Guarantee of Digital Rights, keeping it strictly confidential and not accessible to unauthorised third parties, and the Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on Data Protection (RGPD). Written informed consent will be obtained from all the participants. The study’s results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific congresses worldwide. The results will also be disseminated through patient advocacy group newsletters and social media platforms. Patient partners will help select the appropriate channels and develop plain-language summaries tailored to their communities’ needs.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04934358 (registration date: 14 June 2021).

Cultural considerations at end‐of‐life for people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds: A critical interpretative synthesis

Abstract

Purpose/Aim

To establish cultural considerations for people from culturally or linguistically diverse backgrounds at the end-of-life in Australia.

Background

Globally, there is a rapidly increasing proportion of the ageing population, and high levels of migration to Australia, the Australian healthcare community must recognise individualised and cultural needs when approaching death and end-of-life care. Many people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds do not traditionally practice the palliative care approaches that have been developed and practised in Australia.

Design

A Critical Interpretive Synthesis.

Methods

A review protocol was established using PRISMA 2020 guidelines and the literature searched using CINAHL, PubMed, Psych INFO and Medline from January 2011 to 27th February 2021. This search protocol results in 19 peer-reviewed results for inclusion in critical analysis.

Results

Included studies were qualitative (14), quantitative (4) and mixed methods (1). Four themes were identified from the literature: (i) communication and health literacy; (ii) access to end-of-life care services; (iii) cultural norms, traditions and rituals; and (iv) cultural competence of healthcare workers.

Conclusions

Healthcare workers have an essential role in providing care to people with life-limiting illnesses. Cultural considerations during end-of-life care are imperative for the advancement of nursing practice. To achieve effective care for people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds during end-of-life care, healthcare workers need to increase their education and cultural competency. There is inadequate research conducted within specific cultural groups, rural and remote Australian communities and individual cultural competence of healthcare workers.

Implications for Practice

Continuing advancement within nursing practice relies on health professionals adopting a person-centred and culturally appropriate approach to care. To ensure individualised person-centred care is provided in a culturally appropriate way, healthcare workers must learn to reflect on their practice and actively advocate for people with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds during end-of-life care.

Using FRAME Documentation to Achieve RE‐AIM Goals During Iterative, Stakeholder‐Engaged Refinement of a Family Management Intervention for Parents of Preterm Infants

ABSTRACT

Aims

To co-identify adaptations with key stakeholders needed to optimise elements of a video-based intervention (i.e., PREEMIE PROGRESS [PP]), which trains parents in evidence-based family management skills to care for their very preterm infant in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Design

Descriptive qualitative study oriented with a pragmatic philosophy, informed by the reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, maintenance (RE-AIM) framework and the framework for reporting adaptations and modifications-expanded (FRAME).

Methods

Semistructured interviews to identify potential adaptations with key stakeholders: family management researchers (n = 5), clinicians (n = 9), technology experts (n = 5) and parents of preterm infants (n = 17). Weekly design team meetings to select and implement high-priority adaptations necessary for the next research phase. Monthly NICU parent partnership meetings to review adaptations and make recommendations for potential adaptations with conflicting data.

Results

Stakeholders (N = 36) suggested 98 potential adaptations: 32 (33.0%) were completed, 8 (8.2%) were abandoned, 5 (5.2%) have work that is ongoing and 52 (53.6%) were tabled for future research phases. Content adaptations (70, 71.4%) were the most frequently suggested adaptation type. Potential adaptations mostly addressed RE-AIM dimensions of effectiveness (43, 43.9%), and implementation (46, 46.9%) and were directed at the parent (i.e., intervention recipient) level (79, 81.4%).

Conclusion

Use of the RE-AIM framework ensured we systematically identified needed adaptations with key stakeholders across a range of dimensions that would improve PP for parents now and in future phases of this research.

Implications for the Profession

Co-identifying potential adaptations with key stakeholders, paired with FRAME documentation, can help nurses prioritise adaptations most appropriate for each phase of implementation.

Impact

Our paper highlights for nurse clinicians and researchers how FRAME documentation of potential adaptations can support stakeholder engagement and a systematic approach to incorporating adaptations throughout all phases of the research process, thereby shortening the evidence to practice gap.

Reporting Method

COREQ guidelines for qualitative reporting.

Patient/Public Contribution

The research team was supported by members of the NICU's Parent Partnership Council (PPC), whose mission is to promote family-centred care improvement projects and research within the NICU. This committee is comprised of nursing, physician, allied health leadership and parents of infants previously hospitalised in the NICU. The NICU PPC met monthly to review conflicting data on potential adaptations and provide recommendations on adaptation decisions.

Advancing evidence‐based practice through the Knowledge Translation Challenge: Nurses’ important roles in research, implementation science and practice change

Abstract

Aim

To describe a knowledge translation capacity-building initiative and illustrate the roles of nurses in practice change using an exemplar case study.

Design

The report uses observational methods and reflection.

Methods

The Knowledge Translation Challenge program involves a multi-component intervention across several sites. The advisory committee invited eligible teams to attend capacity-building workshops. Implementation plans were developed, and successful teams receive funding for a 2 year period. Evaluation involved collecting data on program uptake and impact on practice change. Data has been collected from five cohorts. The exemplar case study employed an action-research framework.

Results

Four nurse-led teams have demonstrated successful implementation of their practice change. The case study on implementing a clinical toolkit for clozapine management further illustrates a thoughtful planning process, and implementation journey and learnings by a team of nurses.

Conclusion

The Knowledge Translation Challenge program empowers nurses to use implementation science practices to enhance the quality and effectiveness of healthcare services. Success of this initiative serves as a model for addressing the persistent gap between knowledge and practice in clinical settings and the value of activating nurses to help close this gap.

Implications

As the most trusted and numerous profession, it is vital that nurses contribute to efforts to translate research evidence into clinical practice. The Knowledge Translation Challenge program supports nurses to lead practice change.

Impact

The Knowledge Translation Challenge program successfully equips nurses and other health care providers with the knowledge, skills and resources to implement practice improvements which enhance the quality and effectiveness of healthcare services and nursing practice.

Patient or Public Contribution

The Knowledge Translation Challenge advisory committee has three patient-public partners that support teams to develop a patient-oriented approach for their projects by providing feedback on the implementation plans. Each team was also supported to include patient-public partners on their project.

Getting recovery right after neck dissection for head and neck cancer (GRRAND): trial protocol for a multicentre, pragmatic randomised controlled trial with health economic evaluation and process evaluation

Por: Evans · C. · Greene · L. · Hossain · A. · Klear · P. · Ratna · M. · Bradley · H. · Lall · R. · Mistry · H. · Naghdi · S. · Reategui · M. · Stevens · T. · Bruce · J. · Price · R. · Schache · A. · Dean · S. G. · Lamb · S. E. · Smith · T. · Winter · S. C.
Introduction

Head and neck cancer (HNC) affects the mouth, throat, salivary glands, voice box, nose or sinuses. Every year, over 12 000 people in the UK are diagnosed with HNC. Neck dissection is a key, surgical component of patient care. However, many people experience postoperative restriction in shoulder and neck movements, pain, fatigue and low mood, with only half ever returning to work.

Methods and analysis

Getting Recovery Right After Neck Dissection (GRRAND) is a two-arm, multicentre, pragmatic randomised controlled trial. The trial aims to compare clinical and cost-effectiveness of a personalised physiotherapy programme (GRRAND programme) versus usual practice, National Health Service (NHS), postdischarge care.

The planned sample size is 390 participants. Participants will be recruited from across UK sites and followed up for 12 months. The primary outcome is the shoulder pain and disability index at 12 months. Economic evaluation will be conducted from a healthcare system and personal social services perspective. Secondary outcome data, including pain, function, health-related quality of life, mental well-being, health resource use and adverse events, will be collected at 6 weeks, 3, 6 and 12 months, with exercise adherence at 6 weeks. A process evaluation will determine how GRRAND is implemented, delivered and received across clinical settings, exploring what works, for whom and under what conditions. Analysis will be on an intention-to-treat basis and reported inline with the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials statement.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial was approved by the London-Brent Research Ethics Committee (ref: 24/LO/0722) on 15 October 2024. Trial results will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications, presentations at national and international conferences, in lay summaries and social media. This protocol adheres to the recommended Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials checklist.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN13855775.

Advance Care Planning in Oncology Nursing: An Interpretive Description Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

To explore oncology nursing advance care planning practices and understand how to better support nurses in conducting advance care planning with patients and their families.

Design

Qualitative interpretive descriptive methodology.

Methods

Semi-structured, individual telephone or Zoom interviews with 19 oncology nurses in a Western province of Canada between May and August 2022. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, de-identified, and analysed using inductive, thematic, and constant comparative techniques.

Results

Oncology nurses highlighted several factors affecting their ability to engage in advance care planning, including (1) uncertainties related to the nursing role in advance care planning, such as how and when a nurse ought to engage; (2) the educational, experiential, and training environment; and (3) structural barriers, such as a lack of time, space, and privacy; models of care that inhibit nurses from developing longitudinal relationships with their patients; and team dynamics that affect advance care planning interdisciplinary collaboration.

Conclusion

To create environments that support oncology nurses to conduct advance care planning, the findings suggest uncertainties be addressed through a clear and cohesive organisational approach to advance care planning and ongoing, integrated educational opportunities. Further, service delivery models may need to be restructured such that nurses have dedicated time and space for nurse-led advance care planning and opportunities to develop trusting relationships with both patients and their interdisciplinary colleagues.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Impact

Oncology nurses recognised the value of advance care planning in supporting patient-centred care and shared decision making, yet they reported limited engagement in advance care planning in their practice. To support oncology nurses in conducting advance care planning, healthcare leaders may address (1) advance care planning-related uncertainties and (2) structural barriers that prevent nurses from engaging in advance care planning with patients and their families. Findings may guide modifications to care models, enhancing support for oncology nurses in conducting advance care planning.

Reporting Method

We selected and adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) as the most applicable guideline.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Tailored exercise management versus usual care for people aged 80 years or older with hip/knee osteoarthritis and comorbidities (TEMPO): multicentre feasibility randomised controlled trial in England

Por: Nicolson · P. J. A. · Holden · M. A. · Marian · I. · Saeedi · E. · Williamson · E. · Moylan · D. · Stone · M. · Hopewell · S. · Lamb · S. E. · TEMPO feasibility trial collaborators · Barker · Dickson · Price · Webber
Objective

To assess the feasibility of conducting a definitive randomised controlled trial (RCT) to test the clinical and cost-effectiveness of a tailored exercise intervention compared with usual care for people aged 80 years and older with hip and/or knee osteoarthritis (OA) and comorbidities.

Design

Two-arm, parallel-design, multicentre, pragmatic, feasibility RCT.

Setting

Four National Health Service outpatient physiotherapy services across England.

Participants

Adults aged 80 years and over with clinical hip and/or knee OA and ≥1 comorbidity.

Interventions

Participants were randomised 1:1 via a central web-based system to be offered: (1) a 12-week tailored exercise programme or (2) usual care. Participants and outcome assessors were not blinded to treatment allocation.

Feasibility objectives

(1) Ability to screen and recruit participants; (2) retention of participants at 14-week follow-up; (3) intervention fidelity (proportion of participants who received ≥4 intervention sessions as per protocol) and (4) participant engagement (assessed by home exercise adherence).

Results

Between 12 May 2022 and 26 January 2023, 133 potential participants were screened, of whom 94 were eligible. The main reasons for ineligibility were symptoms not consistent with hip or knee OA (10/39, 25.6%) or already having had a physiotherapy appointment (8/39, 20.5%). 51 of 94 (54%) eligible participants were recruited. Participants had a mean age of 84 years (SD 3.5), 31 (60.8%) were female and 96.1% reported their ethnicity as White British (n=49/51). 45 of 51 participants (88%) provided outcome data at the 14-week follow-up time point. Four or more intervention sessions were attended by 13/25 (52%) participants. Home exercise log completion declined over time: 6/23 participants (26.1%) returned completed exercise logs for all 12 weeks. The median number of days home exercises were recorded each week was 5 (range 0–7).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that a definitive trial would be feasible. Before proceeding, modifications to ensure recruitment of a diverse population and intervention fidelity should be addressed.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN75983430.

Real-world waitlist randomised controlled trial of gameChange VR to treat severe agoraphobic avoidance in patients with psychosis: a study protocol

Por: Freeman · D. · Jones · J. · Prouten · E. · Sainsbury · J. · Morrison · A. · Chapman · K. · Cousins · E. · Altoft · V. · Peel · H. · Kabir · T. · Myrick · J. · Rovira · A. · Rouse · N. · Waite · F. · Lambe · S. · Leal · J. · Yu · L.-M.
Introduction

Many people with psychosis find the world very frightening. It can be difficult for them to do everyday things—for example, walking down a busy street, travelling on a bus or going to the shops. Sometimes, the fears are so great that individuals rarely leave their homes. gameChange virtual reality therapy is designed to reduce this agoraphobic avoidance. In gameChange, users practise going into computerised immersive versions of ordinary situations. A virtual therapist guides users through the programme. A mental health worker also supports people. People normally do six sessions of gameChange, but now they can do more as headsets can be left with many people. We originally tested gameChange with 346 patients with psychosis. People saw a significant reduction in their fears. People with the most severe problems made the biggest improvements. This led to gameChange receiving National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Early Value Assessment (EVA) approval for its use with patients with psychosis who have severe agoraphobic avoidance. NICE EVA approval is conditional on further evidence generation. We aim to carry out a real-world trial of gameChange used in the NHS. The overall aim is to gather evidence on the four essential areas (clinical benefits on agoraphobia, level of engagement and adherence, healthcare resource use, adverse effects) and the two further supporting areas (health-related quality of life, generalisability) identified in the NICE evidence generation plan for gameChange.

Methods and analysis

200 patients with psychosis and severe agoraphobic avoidance will be randomised (1:1) to receive gameChange in addition to treatment as usual (TAU) or to a waitlist control group receiving TAU. Assessments will be conducted blind to group allocation at baseline, 8 weeks (end of treatment) and 26 weeks (follow-up). The trial will be embedded in services in at least seven National Health Service (NHS) trusts across England. The primary outcome is agoraphobic avoidance at 26 weeks assessed with the Oxford Agoraphobic Avoidance Scale. The secondary clinical outcomes are agoraphobic distress, paranoia and social contacts. There will be tests of moderation of the main clinical outcome. Treatment acceptability, adverse effects and cost-effectiveness will also be assessed. The target estimand is the treatment policy estimand and all primary and secondary analyses will be carried out incorporating data from all participants including those who do not complete treatment.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial has received ethical approval from the NHS Health Research Authority and Health and Care Research Wales (25/WA/0081). A key output will be the evidence needed for a NICE guidance update on gameChange and a clear recommendation concerning future routine use in the NHS.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN79060696.

Ward AdmiSsion of Haematuria: an Observational mUlticentre sTudy (WASHOUT) - study protocol

Por: Bhatt · N. · Byrnes · K. · Ippoliti · S. · Varma · R. · Jie Chow · B. · Mak · Q. · Kerdegari · N. · Asif · A. · Nathan · A. · Ng · A. · McGrath · J. · Lamb · B. · Catto · J. · Challacombe · B. · Ribal · M. · MacLennan · G. · Gallagher · K. · Khadhouri · S. · Kasivisvanathan · V.
Introduction

Haematuria contributes significantly to emergency urology admissions with over 4 per 1000 annual UK emergency admissions and 10% readmitted within 30 days. However, there is limited focus on optimising inpatient pathways internationally. Existing studies highlight a substantial underlying malignancy rate (32%) in patients presenting with visible haematuria, yet many receive inconsistent care, leading to prolonged hospital stays and increased resource use. A systematic review performed by our research group found no large-scale prospective studies have been performed in this area, and little is known about current practice. This study aims to address these gaps by investigating current management practices and their impact on outcomes, with the goal of informing evidence-based guidelines and improving patient care.

Methods and analysis

The Ward AdmiSsion of Haematuria: an Observational mUlticentre sTudy is an international, multicentre prospective observational study designed to describe the management of patients with unplanned admission to hospital with haematuria under the care of the urology team. The study will use a collaborative methodology using the British Urology Researchers in Surgical Training model. This model delivers international multicentre studies by empowering trainees to lead all aspects of multi-centre clinical studies, building research skills cost-effectively while shaping the future urological consultant workforce. Data on demographics, comorbidities, management practices and outcomes will be collected using a standardised case report form and analysed using multilevel linear regression modelling. Primary outcomes include length of stay, while secondary outcomes cover hospitalisation free survival, mortality, readmission rates at 90 days and resource use. The study was launched in January 2024 and will continue follow-up data collection through December 2025. Patient and public involvement (PPI) has been integral to the study design, ensuring that outcomes reflect patient priorities and that the research addresses key areas of concern.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical and regulatory approvals will be obtained as required in each participating region. In the UK, the study is classified as a service evaluation and does not require individual patient consent. Participating sites must obtain local audit department approval. Data will be collected and stored securely, ensuring patient confidentiality. Results will be disseminated through scientific conferences, peer-reviewed publications and patient advocacy groups.

Time-lapse imaging systems for embryo incubation and assessment to improve reproductive outcomes in women undergoing in vitro fertilisation: study protocol for an individual participant data meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Por: Bhide · P. · Chan · D. Y. L. · Ahlström · A. · del Campo · L. · Kieslinger · D. · Lundin · K. · Park · H. · Fauque · P. · Kahraman · S. · Khan · K. S. · Kovacs · P. · Lambalk · C. B. · Thangaratinam · S. · Vergouw · C. G. · van Wely · M. · Zamora · J.
Introduction

Time-lapse imaging (TLI) systems for embryo incubation and assessment are hypothesised to improve the success rates of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment by providing undisturbed culture conditions for embryos and/or providing more information on embryo development (morphokinetic parameters) to improve predictive accuracy for embryo selection. Despite numerous aggregate meta-analyses showing uncertainty of benefit, IVF clinics globally continue to invest significant resources into this technology with little translation of evidence into guidelines or policy frameworks. This may be attributed to heterogeneity in participant populations and/or variations in the use of TLI, as highlighted in the aggregate meta-analyses.

Methods and analysis

Our research proposal for evidence synthesis using individual participant data meta-analysis will provide greater power than aggregate meta-analysis to detect differential treatment effects for effectiveness (live birth, clinical pregnancy) and safety (pregnancy loss, multiple births, congenital malformations) outcomes across three comparisons (overall effect, undisturbed culture and morphokinetic parameters). We will also analyse if there are specific subgroups of women who may benefit from the intervention and if variations in use of the intervention show any benefits. We have incorporated the results of the literature search used for the latest Cochrane review (7 January 2019) into this review and will include all the trials included therein. We will further update the literature search to include new evidence by searching the electronic databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and CENTRAL from 07/01/2019 to date, outcomes for all ongoing trials reported in the 2019 Cochrane review, trial registers for newer ongoing/completed trials and the citation lists of all the newly identified trials for any relevant references. The search strategy will include a combination of subject headings and text words relating to or describing the participants and the intervention, with no language restrictions. Two authors will independently screen the titles and abstracts, and full text of articles retrieved from the search, to finalise a list of trials suitable for inclusion in the review. We will include randomised controlled trials that assess TLI systems for either undisturbed culture and/or use of morphokinetic parameters for embryo selection in women having IVF/ICSI treatment using their own oocytes.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for this study. We plan to disseminate the findings of the research to all stakeholders, including the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and other international guideline development groups, through publication in peer-reviewed journals, presentation at conferences, newsletters, meetings and websites of the funders, fertility charities and patient support groups.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024564332.

Effects of antibiotic prescribing for respiratory tract infection on future consultations in primary care: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Por: Adamu · I. · Lambert · A. · Bello · S. · Abdulmalik · F. A. · Marshall · T.
Objectives

Prescribing antibiotics may reinforce patients’ beliefs that antibiotics are needed and increase future consultations for similar symptoms. This review determines the effect of antibiotic prescribing for respiratory infections in primary care on future reattendance.

Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies and reported following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Participants were adults or children presenting with respiratory infection in primary care.

Data sources

MEDLINE (Ovid), PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, clinical trial registries and grey literature sources were searched from inception until 6 February 2024.

Eligibility criteria

Eligible studies included open-label RCTs or cohort studies of antibiotics compared with no antibiotics in adults or children with respiratory infections. The outcome of interest was reattendance at least 28 days after the initial consultation.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two reviewers independently screened, selected, assessed the quality and extracted data. Separate meta-analyses were presented for RCT and cohort studies and a combined meta-analysis of all studies.

Results

We identified 2128 records and reviewed 48 full texts, of which five met the inclusion criteria. These reported three RCTs (1207 randomised to antibiotics, 672 controls) and three cohort studies (209 138 exposed to antibiotics, 46 469 controls). In the meta-analysis of RCTs, relative risk (RR) of reattendance with antibiotics was 1.10 (95% CI: 0.99 to 1.23), and in cohort studies, RR was 1.21 (95% CI: 0.94 to 1.49). An important limitation is that most studies were in UK primary care.

Conclusion

Evidence suggests prescribing antibiotics for acute respiratory tract infections in primary care probably modestly increases future reattendance for similar conditions. Reducing antibiotic prescribing may help decrease demand for primary care.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023470731.

Clinical evaluation of adults undergoing elective surgery utilizing intraoperative incisional wound irrigation (CLEAN Wound): protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Por: Roke · R. · Lillie · E. · Daneman · N. · Mason · S. A. · Tomlinson · G. · Jiang · Y. · Shiroky · J. · Puran · S. · Smith · D. E. · Abou Khalil · J. · Kayssi · A. · Serrano · P. E. · Pinchuk · B. · Apte · S. S. · Lamb · T. · Ma · G. · Vogt · K. · Leslie · K. · Mutabdzic · D. · Gomez · D. · Ladh
Introduction

In moderate to high-risk surgical procedures, 15–25% of patients develop a postoperative surgical site infection. Intraoperative incisional wound irrigation has the potential to reduce surgical site infections, and additional randomised controlled trials are required to provide evidence of effectiveness.

Methods and analysis

This protocol describes a pragmatic, adaptive, participant and adjudicator-blinded trial at 13 sites in Canada in up to 2500 participants. Participants planned for surgery with an abdominal or groin incision, who are eligible and provide verbal consent through an integrated consent model, are randomised to receive intraoperative incisional wound irrigation with povidone-iodine, saline or no irrigation. The primary outcome is surgical site infection within 30 days postoperatively. Secondary outcomes include quality of life measured 30 days postoperatively and morbidity, mortality and healthcare utilisation within 90 days postoperatively.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial has been approved by the research ethics board at the participating centres and stopped enrolling participants on May 23, 2025. All participants will provide verbal consent. Results will be disseminated via presentation at conferences, publication and posted on clinicaltrials.gov.

Trial registration number

The study is registered with http://clinicaltrial.gov (NCT04548661; 14 September 2020).

Developing and Evaluating the Use of ChatGPT as a Screening Tool for Nurses Conducting Structured Literature Reviews: Proof of Concept Study Results

ABSTRACT

Aim

To examine the feasibility of using a large language model (LLM) as a screening tool during structured literature reviews to facilitate evidence-based practice.

Design

A proof-of-concept study.

Methods

This paper outlines an innovative method of abstract screening using ChatGPT and computer coding for large scale, effective and efficient abstract screening. The authors, new to ChatGPT and computer coding, used online education and ChatGPT to upskill. The method was empirically tested using 400 abstracts relating to public involvement in nursing education from four different databases (CINAHL, Scopus, ERIC and MEDLINE), using four versions of ChatGPT. Results were compared with a human nursing researcher and reported using the CONSORT 2010 extension for pilot and feasibility trials checklist.

Results

ChatGPT-3.5 Turbo was most effective for rapid screening and had a broad inclusionary approach with a false-negative rate lower than the human researcher. More recent versions of ChatGPT-4, 4 Turbo, and 4 omni were less effective and had a higher number of false negatives compared to ChatGPT-3.5 Turbo and the human researcher. These more recent versions of ChatGPT did not appear to appreciate the nuance and complexities of concepts that underpin nursing practice.

Conclusion

LLMs can be useful in reducing the time nurses spend screening research abstracts without compromising on literature review quality, indicating the potential for expedited synthesis of research evidence to bridge the research–practice gap. However, the benefits of using LLMs can only be realised if nurses actively engage with LLMs, explore LLMs' capabilities to address complex nursing issues, and report on their findings.

Implications for the Professional and/or Patient Care

Nurses need to engage with LLMs to explore their capabilities and suitability for nursing purposes.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

‘I tried to get into their shoes and their culture’. Care worker experiences in cultural end‐of‐life care: Interpretative phenomenological analysis

Abstract

Aim

What are care workers' lived experiences caring for people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds during end-of-life care?

Design

Interpretative phenomenological analysis

Methods

The lived experiences of 11 care workers within the Australian Capital Territory and region who have cared for someone of a culturally and linguistically diverse background during end-of-life care were captured. Each care worker was interviewed individually and answered a series of semi-structured open-ended questions.

Results

Using interpretative phenomenological analysis, three group experiential themes were derived: (i) navigating cultural shock and death, (ii) the hard work of communication and (iii) searching for deeper connections with client and self. Within these were key elements: Care workers worked hard to embrace cultural diversity, but struggled to meet cultural needs, particularly in relation to the unpredictable timeline of dying. Care workers relied on themselves and their improvisation, but experienced self-blame for inadequate care and unexpected challenges in communication. Blurred boundaries in relation to therapeutic relationships were apparent, and care workers felt alone with emotional burden, but also found belonging and joy in their work.

Conclusion

Care workers' experiences are vital to understanding the barriers and challenges in providing culturally appropriate end-of-life care. Care workers repeatedly experienced an emotional burden and vicarious trauma throughout their work in this field. Care workers were self-reliant in all aspects of care including communication and consistently desired education, training, resources and support. There remains inadequate research on care workers and their role within the Australian healthcare context.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Care workers need access to support and resources including professional translators to provide culturally appropriate end-of-life care. Workplaces and registered nurses should facilitate training and provide guidance to care workers. A person-centred approach is required during all client encounters while maintaining appropriate therapeutic relationships including therapeutic use of self and professional boundaries.

Reporting Method

COREQ Checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

During this study, care workers were interviewed on their experiences caring for people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds during end-of-life care. Patients were not directly involved within this study, but their views may have been expressed through the care workers' experience.

The other COVID‐19 survivors: Timing, duration, and health impact of post‐acute sequelae of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection

Abstract

Aims and Objectives

To determine the frequency, timing, and duration of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) and their impact on health and function.

Background

Post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection is an emerging major public health problem that is poorly understood and has no current treatment or cure. PASC is a new syndrome that has yet to be fully clinically characterised.

Design

Descriptive cross-sectional survey (n = 5163) was conducted from online COVID-19 survivor support groups who reported symptoms for more than 21 days following SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods

Participants reported background demographics and the date and method of their covid diagnosis, as well as all symptoms experienced since onset of covid in terms of the symptom start date, duration, and Likert scales measuring three symptom-specific health impacts: pain and discomfort, work impairment, and social impairment. Descriptive statistics and measures of central tendencies were computed for participant demographics and symptom data.

Results

Participants reported experiencing a mean of 21 symptoms (range 1–93); fatigue (79.0%), headache (55.3%), shortness of breath (55.3%) and difficulty concentrating (53.6%) were the most common. Symptoms often remitted and relapsed for extended periods of time (duration M = 112 days), longest lasting symptoms included the inability to exercise (M = 106.5 days), fatigue (M = 101.7 days) and difficulty concentrating, associated with memory impairment (M = 101.1 days). Participants reported extreme pressure at the base of the head, syncope, sharp or sudden chest pain, and “brain pressure” among the most distressing and impacting daily life.

Conclusions

Post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection can be characterised by a wide range of symptoms, many of which cause moderate-to-severe distress and can hinder survivors' overall well-being.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This study advances our understanding of the symptoms of PASC and their health impacts.

Nurse practitioner led telehealth services: A scoping review

Abstract

Aim

To explore the educational preparation of nurse practitioners to deliver telehealth services and their impact on access to care.

Design

Scoping review.

Methods

A search was undertaken 4 April 2022. Primary studies that focused on nurse practitioners and their patients/clients engaging in telehealth services in any healthcare setting or clinical area within Australia, New Zealand, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Ireland, published between 2010 to 2022, were included. Study findings were analysed using the Levesque et al. (2013) access to care framework and the Patterns, Advances, Gaps, Evidence for Practice and Research Recommendations framework (Bradbury-Jones et al., 2021). The PRISMA-ScR checklist was used to guide reporting.

Data Sources

CINAHL, Medline, Scopus, and Embase databases.

Results

Forty-two studies were included. Studies (n = 28) relating to access to care focused on appropriateness/ability to engage (n = 14), affordability/ability to pay (n = 1), and availability/ability to reach (n = 13). High levels of telehealth satisfaction were reported, including reduced travel time and costs, and appointment flexibility. Telehealth satisfaction was reduced when a perceived need for physical assessment, or privacy concerns were present. Service providers reported decreased emergency presentations, fewer missed appointments and improved consumer engagement. Fourteen studies related to nurse practitioner education, using a range of approaches such as didactic education modules, simulations and clinical experiences, all published within the past 3 years.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that nurse practitioner-led telehealth has improved access to care. High levels of satisfaction indicate patients accept nurse practitioner-led telehealth. Impacts to healthcare service use and patient engagement further support the viability of nurse practitioner-led telehealth. The recent increase in telehealth education studies reflects the rapid uptake of telehealth care in the mainstream.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

Patients perceive telehealth as acceptable and appropriate to meet their healthcare needs and improve access to care. Telehealth is likely to be a mainstay in ongoing healthcare delivery, therefore, nurse practitioners must have educational preparation to provide telehealth.

Impact

This scoping review provides insight into the ways nurse practitioners deliver telehealth services, how they are educated to provide telehealth services, and their impact on access to care. Nurse practitioner-led telehealth improves access to care across service provision and consumer perspective domains. Nurse practitioner telehealth education is an emerging topic. This research is valuable for nurse practitioners using telehealth, nurse practitioner educators and telehealth policy decision makers.

Reporting Method

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR).

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.

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