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Aims This paper tests the mediating effect of institutional peer support on the relationship between physical declines and depressive symptoms among nursing home residents. Background As the number of older adults living in nursing homes increases, peer support received from other residents in the institutions is critical to the psychological well-being of residents who face physical declines and reduction in family support. This study tested whether institutional peer support would account for the detrimental effect of physical declines on depressive symptoms of Chinese older people residing in nursing homes. Design A cross-sectional design was used. Method The study was conducted between January-March 2009 by convenience sampling. The sample consisted of 187 nursing home residents, with 54 men and 133 women. Interviews were conducted by an experienced research assistant, and responses on physical abilities and institutional peer support were collected. Geriatric Depression Scale was used to assess depressive symptoms of each participant. Results Participants with poor physical abilities reported more depressive symptoms. Institutional peer support was negatively correlated with physical declines and depressive symptoms. Results of the regression analysis showed that the effect of physical declines on depressive symptoms was no longer significant when the influence of institutional peer support was statistically controlled, indicating a full mediation of institutional peer support on depression of older people. Conclusion Findings of this study reveal that institutional peer support positively contributes to the psychological well-being of nursing home residents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A kuma A .O . & J ordan S . (2012) Pain management in neonates: a survey of nurses and doctors. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(6), 1288-1301. Abstract Aim. This paper is a report of a descriptive survey of nurses' and doctors' knowledge and reported practice regarding procedural pain assessment and management in neonatal intensive care units. Background. There are concerns that pain is often unrecognized and under-treated in neonates. Current guidelines advocate administration of analgesia and comfort measures, but may be vulnerable to inter-professional differences in guideline implementation. Methods. All nurses and doctors working in all seven neonatal intensive care units in one area of the United Kingdom were surveyed between January to August 2007. Lead clinicians distributed and collected anonymous questionnaires. Findings. Response rate was 44% (62 doctors, 137 nurses). Internal consistency was high, overall Cronbach's alpha 0·976. Respondents were knowledgeable, mean score 82% (SD13·3%). They agreed that neonates feel pain and need analgesia. Chest drain insertion was perceived to be the most painful procedure, heel-prick the least. Respondents reported that analgesia and comfort measures were not usually administered for most procedures: nurses were more likely than doctors to report adhering to guidelines advocating administration of analgesia and comfort measures. Statistically significant differences between current and optimal practice were acknowledged. Few (21% and 37%) had received training on neonatal pain and fewer (2·5%) employed recognized pain assessment instruments. Pain management guidelines were available to 29(47%) doctors and 85(62%) nurses; 20(18%) reported that these had been audited. Conclusion. Clinicians were knowledgeable about neonatal pain, but gaps between knowledge and practice remain. This hiatus could be bridged by providing research evidence for the efficacy of guidelines incorporating validated pain assessment instruments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

papastavrou e., efstathiou g., tsangari h., suhonen r., leino-kilpi h., patiraki e., karlou c., balogh z., palese a., tomietto m., jarosova d. & merkouris a. (2011) A cross-cultural study of the concept of caring through behaviours: patients' and nurses' perspectives in six different EU countries. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(5), 1026-1037. Abstract Aim. This paper is a report of an international study of patients' and nurses' perceptions of nurse caring behaviours. Background. Current economic constraints on healthcare systems, demand to increase the quality of care and the incorporation of the consumers' perspective into care, have created a need to develop a clear understanding of nursing behaviours which convey caring. Patients in different areas of the world report different expectations of nurses' caring actions when compared to nurses' views. Method. A descriptive comparative survey design was used to analyse a sample of surgical patients ( n = 1659) and their nurses ( n = 1195) in 88 wards of 34 hospitals in Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Finland, Greece, Hungary and Italy. Data were collected in autumn 2009 using the Caring Behaviours Inventory-24. Nurses' and patients' responses were compared using both inferential and descriptive statistics. Results. Independent samples t-tests showed important differences between nurses' and patients' views. Although both groups perceived knowledge and skill as being the most important sub-scale, the nurses' responses were higher compared to patients ( P < 0·05) with important differences in the 'assurance of human presence' ( P < 0·001) and the 'respectful deference to others' ( P < 0·001) sub-scales. Cross-country comparisons showed important differences between the nurses' ( F = 24·199, P < 0·001) and patients' views on caring ( F = 26·945, P < 0·001). Conclusions. Important differences were observed between patient-nurse perceptions in the participating countries. The results form a foundation for future research into the development of a common international perspective about caring behaviours between patients and their nurses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

scott k., white k., johnson c. & roydhouse j.k. (2011) Knowledge and skills of cancer clinical trials nurses in Australia. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(5), 1111-1121. Abstract Aims. This paper is a report of the development and testing of a questionnaire measuring knowledge and skills of cancer clinical trials nurse in Australia. Background. The role of cancer clinical trials nurse, widely acknowledged as an integral member of the clinical research team, has evolved in recent years. Elements of the clinical trials nurse role in cancer have previously been described. To evaluate specific cancer clinical trials nurse educational and training needs, the development of a valid and reliable tool is required. Methods. In 2009, a study was conducted in three stages. Stage I: questionnaire development and pilot testing; stage II: focus group; stage III: national survey. Internal consistency reliability testing and multi-trait analysis of item convergent/divergent validity were employed. Regression analysis was used to identify predictors of clinical trials nurse knowledge and skills. Results. The national survey was a 48-item questionnaire, measuring six clinical trial knowledge and seven skills sub-scales. Of 61 respondents, 90% were women, with mean age 43 years, 19 years as a Registered Nurse and 5 years as a cancer clinical trials nurse. Self-reported knowledge and skills were satisfactory to good. Internal consistency reliability was high (Cronbach's alpha: knowledge = 0·98; skills = 0·90). Criteria for item convergent/divergent validity were met. Number of years as cancer clinical trials nurse was positively related to self-reported knowledge and skills. Conclusion. Preliminary data suggest that the national survey is reliable and valid. Data have contributed to better understanding the knowledge and skills of cancer clinical trials nurse in Australia and development of a postgraduate course in clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

liu c.-c., chen y.-c., yeh y.-p. & hsieh y.-s. (2011) Effects of maternal confidence and competence on maternal parenting stress in newborn care. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(4), 908-918. Abstract Aim. This paper is a report of a correlational study of the relations of maternal confidence and maternal competence to maternal parenting stress during newborn care. Background. Maternal role development is a cognitive and social process influenced by cultural and family contexts and mother and child characteristics. Most knowledge about maternal role development comes from western society. However, perceptions of the maternal role in contemporary Taiwanese society may be affected by contextual and environmental factors. Methods. A prospective correlational design was used to recruit 372 postpartum Taiwanese women and their infants from well-child clinics at 16 health centres in central Taiwan. Inclusion criteria for mothers were gestational age >37 weeks, ≥18 years old, and healthy, with infants <4 months old. Data were collected between August 2007 and January 2008 using a self-report questionnaire on mothers' and infants' demographic variables, maternal confidence, maternal competence and self-perceived maternal parenting stress. Results. After controlling for maternal parity and infant temperament, high maternal confidence and competence were associated with low maternal parenting stress. Maternal confidence influenced maternal parenting stress both directly and indirectly via maternal competence. Conclusion. To assist postpartum women in infant care programmes achieve positive outcomes, nurses should evaluate and bolster mothers' belief in their own abilities. Likewise, nurses should not only consider mothers' infant care skills, but also mothers' parity and infant temperament. Finally, it is crucial for nurses and researchers to recognize that infant care programmes should be tailored to mothers' specific maternal characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

hatlevik i.k.r. (2011) The theory-practice relationship: reflective skills and theoretical knowledge as key factors in bridging the gap between theory and practice in initial nursing education. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(4), 868-877. Abstract Aim. This paper is a report of a correlational study of the relations of nursing students' acquired reflective skills, practical skills and theoretical knowledge on their perception of coherence between theory and practice. Background. Reflection is considered a key factor in bridging the gap between theory and practice. However, it is not evident whether reflective skills are primarily generic in nature or whether they develop from a theoretical knowledge base or the acquisition of practical skills. Method. This study is a secondary analysis of existing data. The data are part of a student survey that was conducted among third-year nursing students in Norway during the spring of 2007. A total of 446 nursing students participated in this study and the response rate was 71%. Structural equation modelling analyses were performed. Findings. The results indicate that students' perception of coherence between theory and practice during initial nursing education is directly influenced by reflective skills and theoretical knowledge. The results also reveal that reflective skills have mediating effects and that practical skills have a fully mediated and theoretical knowledge a partially mediated influence on students' perception of coherence. Conclusion. The findings imply that helping students perceive coherence between theory and practice in nursing education, developing students' reflective skills and strengthening the theoretical components of the initial nursing education programme might be beneficial. The results suggest that reflective thinking is not merely a generic skill but rather a skill that depends on the acquisition of relevant professional knowledge and experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

medin j., windahl j., von arbin m., tham k. & wredling r. (2012) Eating difficulties among patients 3 months after stroke in relation to the acute phase. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(3), 580-589. Abstract Aim. This paper is a report of a study comparing eating difficulties among patients 3 months after stroke in relation to the acute phase. Background. There is limited knowledge of patients with eating problems early after stroke, hence the progress of eating abilities needs to be further explored. Method. From March 2007 to June 2008 36 stroke patients with 2-7 eating difficulties or problems with reduced alertness or swallowing in the acute phase were included. Eating difficulties were detected using a structured protocol of observation of meals. In addition, stroke severity (National Institute of Health Stroke Scale), functional status (Barthel Index), unilateral neglect (Line Bisection test and Letter Cancellation test), psychological well-being (The Well-being Questionnaire-12), nutritional status (Mini Nutritional Assessment) and oral status (Revised Oral Assessment Guide) were assessed. Results. There were 36 participants (58% female) with a median age of 74·5 years. The proportion of eating difficulties decreased significantly from the acute phase to the 3-month follow-up in 'sitting position', 'managing food on the plate' and 'manipulating food in the mouth' and increased regarding inadequate food consumption. Improvements were shown at 3 months in stroke severity, functional status, nutritional status and neglect. Oral status and psychological well-being remained unchanged. Conclusion. The majority of eating problems persisted 3 months after stroke despite a marked improvement in most of the physical functions. The unchanged psychological well-being and sustained problems with food consumption indicate that factors other than physical function should be taken into account regarding eating difficulties poststroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

van de mortel t.f., kermode s., progano t. & sansoni j. (2012) A comparison of the hand hygiene knowledge, beliefs and practices of Italian nursing and medical students. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(3), 569-579. Abstract Aim. This paper reports a study examining the hand hygiene knowledge, beliefs and practices of Italian nursing and medical students with the aim of informing undergraduate curricula. Background. In comparison with registered nurses, physician status is a risk factor for non-compliance with hand hygiene guidelines. Little research has been conducted to determine if differences between the professions in relation to hand hygiene are apparent at the undergraduate level. Cross-disciplinary studies that may provide an insight into this topic are lacking. Methods. A questionnaire was administered to a convenience sample of 117 nursing and 119 medical students in a large university in Rome, Italy, to determine their hand hygiene knowledge, beliefs and practices. The data were collected in 2007-2008. Results. Nursing students' hand hygiene knowledge ( F = 9·03(1,230); P = 0·003), percentage compliance ( Z = 6·197; P < 0·001) and self-reported hand hygiene practices ( F = 34·54(1,230); P < 0·001) were significantly higher than that of medical students. There were no statistically significant differences between hand hygiene beliefs. Mean scores on the knowledge questions were low for both groups, reflecting primarily a knowledge deficit in relation to the use of alcohol-based hand rubs to decontaminate hands in the healthcare setting. Conclusion. Statistically significant disciplinary differences in hand hygiene knowledge and self-reported practices were apparent among undergraduate Italian healthcare students. Further research is needed to determine the causative factors. The overall low scores on the knowledge items indicate that these students require further education on hand hygiene, particularly in relation to the use of alcohol-based hand rubs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

lobchuk m.m., mcpherson c.j., mcclement s.e. & cheang m. (2011) A comparison of patient and family caregiver prospective control over lung cancer. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(5), 1122-1133. Abstract Aim. This paper is a report of our secondary analysis of patient and family caregiver prospective control in lung cancer. Background. Control beliefs underlie self-care in sickness and health. Self-care often involves 'shared' activities between the afflicted individual and caregiving family and friends. However, depending on how control is perceived, conflicts can occur in decision-making thus jeopardizing optimal self-care. We need to comprehend how control beliefs compare between patients and caregivers and how their control beliefs are linked with dealing with serious illness. Methods. Based on questionnaire data collected in our larger study between September 2005 and February 2009, we conducted exploratory comparative analyses of 304 patients' and caregivers' control beliefs in managing lung cancer. Eight 5-point response items captured prospective control. Exploratory factor analysis with promax rotation was conducted to compare dyadic perceptions on the dimensionality of prospective control. We also conducted exploratory correlations between control beliefs and smoking cessation, attributional reactions, caregiver helping and symptom reports. Results. Principal component analysis identified the same factors for patients and caregivers: factor 1, Fate control and factor 2, Team control. Patient and caregiver 'Fate' and 'Team' control sub-scales were respectively associated with hope, caregiver helping and patient smoking cessation. Conclusion. Clinicians need to support, adapt or develop a philosophy of cancer care that is inclusive of partnerships, drawing on beliefs of patients and caregivers that controlling lung cancer is a team effort which in turn is tentatively linked to patient smoking cessation, positive emotions and caregiver helping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To translate the validated measure, Self- Management of Type 1 Diabetes in Adolescents, into the Mandarin Chinese language and to test the psychometric properties of the Chinese version. Background Although research on self-management of Type 1 diabetes has been increasing over the past 20 years, few health-related instruments have been available in the Chinese language for youth with Type 1 diabetes. Design A two-phase design was used in this study, including instrument translation and psychometric testing. Methods The instrument translation, from October 2008-April 2009, included three steps: forward translation, back translation, and comparison of versions via Translation Validity Index - with multiple rounds, group discussion, and achievement of consensus at each step. Psychometric properties of the Chinese version Schilling's Self- Management of Type 1 Diabetes for Adolescents scale was assessed in a convenience sample of 136 Chinese youth (ages 8-19) with Type 1 diabetes between June 2009-August 2009. Results The internal consistency and test-retest reliabilities indicated generally good consistency and temporal stability of the Chinese version. Evidence of construct validity and criterion-related validity was obtained via correlations of subscales with established measures of diabetes adherence and quality of life and also with haemoglobin A1c. Results from hypothesis testing also supported construct validity. Conclusion The Chinese version of Self- Management of Type 1 Diabetes for Adolescents scale is sound and will facilitate cross-cultural studies, while also enabling nurses to monitor and enhance the diabetes self-management of Chinese youth with Type 1 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

gallart a., cruz f. & zabalegui a. (2013) Factors influencing burden among non-professional immigrant caregivers: a case-control study. Journal of Advanced Nursing 69(3), 642-654. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2648.2012.06049.x Abstract Aim. To identify factors related to the burden that is experienced by untrained immigrant caregivers. Background. There is growing concern about how to provide the care required by an ageing population. Although elder care has usually been provided by family members, this role is increasingly being fulfilled by immigrant caregivers with no formal training. Design. Case-control study (burdened/non-burdened according to the Zarit Burden Interview). Methods. The study took place between May 2005-October 2009. Anonymous questionnaires were distributed to 110 immigrant caregivers and their corresponding older care recipients ( n = 110), who were receiving care in their homes in Barcelona (Spain). The questionnaires included measures of burden, social support, quality of life and social integration, and items about the physical/psychological status of the care recipient and the nature of the care tasks. Two groups of immigrant caregivers were defined according to their scores on the Zarit Burden Interview: burdened ( n = 55) and non-burdened ( n = 55). Results. Burdened caregivers reported less social support, a poorer quality of life, and problems with social integration. Furthermore, 48% said that they lacked knowledge about the care task, while 44% had difficulty performing certain care tasks, which constitutes a risk situation. Conclusion. Burden among untrained immigrant caregivers may be reduced by improving their social support systems and quality of life, thereby helping to ensure the availability of the caregiver services, which society increasingly needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

colbert a.m., sereika s.m. & erlen j.a. (2012) Functional health literacy, medication-taking self-efficacy and adherence to antiretroviral therapy. Journal of Advanced Nursing 69(2), 295-304. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2648.2012.06007.x Abstract Aims. To report a study of the relationship between functional health literacy and medication adherence, as mediated by medication-taking self-efficacy, while controlling for the effect of key demographic variables (such as race, income and level of education). Background. Medication adherence is critical to successful HIV/AIDS self-management. Despite simplified regimens and the availability of tools to assist with medication-taking, adherence remains a challenge for many people living with HIV/AIDS. Design. Cross-sectional, secondary analysis. Methods. Data for this study of 302 adults living with HIV/AIDS who were taking antiretroviral medications were collected from January 2004-December 2007. Medication adherence was measured using electronic event monitors. Bivariate analyses and stepwise regression were conducted to examine the associations among functional health literacy, medication-taking self-efficacy and HIV medication adherence. Results. Overall, functional health literacy was much higher than expected; however, adherence in this sample was sub-optimal. Higher medication-taking self-efficacy was associated with higher medication adherence; however, functional health literacy was not significantly related to either medication adherence or self-efficacy beliefs. Hence, medication-taking self-efficacy did not mediate the relationship between functional health literacy and medication adherence. Conclusions. Medication adherence continues to be an issue for people living with HIV/AIDS. Additional research is needed to understand the disparate findings related to functional health literacy and medication adherence in this and other studies examining this association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims. To report a study of the relations of prenatal psychosocial adaptation, social support, demographic and obstetric characteristics, uncertainty, information-seeking behaviour, motherhood normalization, self-efficacy, and commitment to pregnancy. Background. Prenatal psychosocial assessment is recommended to identify psychosocial risk factors early to prevent psychiatric morbidities of mothers and children. However, knowledge on psychosocial adaptation and its explanatory variables is inconclusive. Design. This study was non-experimental, with a cross-sectional, correlational, prospective design. Methods. The study investigated Hong Kong Chinese women during late pregnancy. Convenience sampling methods were used, with 550 women recruited from the low-risk clinics of three public hospitals. Data was collected between January-April 2007. A self-reported questionnaire was used, consisting of a number of measurements derived from an integrated framework of the Life Transition Theory and Theory of Uncertainty in Illness. Explanatory variables of psychosocial adaptation were identified using a structural equation modelling programme. Results. The four explanatory variables of the psychosocial adaptation were social support, uncertainty, self-efficacy, and commitment to pregnancy. In the established model, which had good fit indices, greater psychosocial adaptation was associated with higher social support, higher self-efficacy, higher commitment to pregnancy, and lower uncertainty. Conclusion. The findings give clinicians and midwives guidance in the aspects to focus on when providing psychosocial assessment in routine prenatal screening. Since there are insufficient reliable screening tools to assist that assessment, midwives should receive adequate training, and effective screening instruments have to be identified. The explanatory role of uncertainty found in this study should encourage inquiries into the relationship between uncertainty and psychosocial adaptation in pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. To report the development and psychometric testing of the Behavioral Health Care Competency survey, designed to measure hospital nurse perceptions of behavioral healthcare competency. Background. Hospital nurses working in general or other non-psychiatric units may lack behavioral healthcare competency to manage disruptive behaviours associated with mental illnesses. Design. Instrument development. Method. A nurse study team including clinical experts and nurse researchers from three community hospitals in southern California (USA) reviewed content validity of each item and the 31-item instrument and created a behavioral health care competency conceptual model based on the nursing process. Separate institutional review board permissions were obtained from each hospital. The study team collaborated in the timing of survey administration (November 2010), analysis of the results and survey validation. Results. A total of 844 nurses completed the survey, representing approximately 23-41% of eligible nurses from each hospital. Using principal component analysis with varimax rotation, 23 items led to a factor structure with four components. Four subscales with adequate alpha coefficients were formed: Resource Adequacy, Patient Assessment, Practice/Intervention Competency, and Psychotropic Recommendation. Conclusion. The 23-item hospital nurse Behavioral Health Care Competency survey is an adequate and valid newly developed instrument. Further testing with diverse samples is needed to strengthen generalizability and address unique and specialized nursing care needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

moyle w., murfield j.e., griffiths s.g. & venturato l. (2012) Assessing quality of life of older people with dementia: a comparison of quantitative self-report and proxy accounts. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(10), 2237-2246. Abstract Aims. This article reports on a study of quality of life of older people with dementia, as assessed by the person with dementia, family carer and care staff. Background. People with dementia can give meaningful assessments of their quality of life, but these often differ from proxy ratings. In understanding this discrepancy, the influence of age, extent of cognitive impairment and activity limitation has been investigated. A lack of conclusive associations between quality of life ratings and these variables indicates a need for further research. Methods. Fifty-eight triads comprising the person with dementia, family carer and member of care staff from four long-term care facilities were surveyed on the Quality of Life-Alzheimer's Disease questionnaire between August and December 2007. Results. There was an important difference in the Quality of Life-Alzheimer's Disease questionnaire total mean scores between groups, with the person with dementia providing the highest ratings. Level of impairment in Activities of Daily Living had an important effect on quality of life ratings, with proxies, particularly care staff, providing lower ratings when there was greater activity limitation. This was not replicated for assessments made by the person with dementia. Age or level of cognitive impairment did not influence any ratings. Conclusion. People with dementia can give assessments of their quality of life. However, discrepancy in ratings, with greater activity limitation affecting proxy ratings but not those made by the person with dementia, indicates the importance of including both self-report and proxy measures in research and care planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

côté f., gagnon j., houme p.k., abdeljelil a.b. & gagnon m.-p. (2012) Using the Theory of Planned Behaviour to predict nurses' intention to integrate research evidence into clinical decision-making. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(10), 2289-2298. Abstract Aims. Using an extended Theory of Planned Behaviour, this article is a report of a study to identify the factors that influence nurses' intention to integrate research evidence into their clinical decision-making. Background. Health professionals are increasingly asked to adopt evidence-based practice. The integration of research evidence in nurses' clinical decision-making would have an important impact on the quality of care provided for patients. Despite evidence supporting this practice and the availability of high quality research in the field of nursing, the gap between research and practice is still present. Design. A predictive correlational study. Methods. A total of 336 nurses working in a university hospital participated in this research. Data were collected in February and March 2008 by means of a questionnaire based on an extension of the Theory of Planned Behaviour. Descriptive statistics of the model variables, Pearson correlations between all the variables and multiple linear regression analysis were performed. Results/findings. Nurses' intention to integrate research findings into clinical decision-making can be predicted by moral norm, normative beliefs, perceived behavioural control and past behaviour. The moral norm is the most important predictor. Overall, the final model explains 70% of the variance in nurses' intention. Conclusion. The present study supports the use of an extended psychosocial theory for identifying the determinants of nurses' intention to integrate research evidence into their clinical decision-making. Interventions that focus on increasing nurses' perceptions that using research is their responsibility for ensuring good patient care and providing a supportive environment could promote an evidence-based nursing practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

heilemann m.v., choudhury s.m., kury f.s. & lee k.a. (2012) Factors associated with sleep disturbance in women of Mexican descent. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(10), 2256-2266. Abstract Aims. The aims were to identify the most useful parameters of acculturation in relation to self-reported sleep disturbance and describe risk factors for sleep disturbance in women of Mexican descent. Background. Little is known about acculturation as a factor for poor sleep in the context of other personal factors such as income or sense of resilience or mastery for Latinas in the United States. Design. This study was a secondary analysis of cross sectional survey data. Methods. Personal factors were incorporated into a modification of the Conceptual Framework of Impaired Sleep to guide our secondary analysis of self-reported sleep disturbance. Data were collected from a convenience sample of 312 women of Mexican descent of childbearing age (21-40 years) located in an urban California community were collected and previously analysed in relation to depressive symptoms and post-traumatic stress disorder. The General Sleep Disturbance Scale (in English and Spanish) was used to assess sleep disturbance. Data was collected in 1998 from September through December. Results. Early socialization to the United States during childhood was the most useful acculturation parameter for understanding self-reported sleep disturbance in this sample. In a multivariate regression analysis, three factors (higher acculturation, lower income and higher depressive symptoms) were statistically significant in accounting for 40% of the variance in sleep disturbance. Conclusion. When low income Latinas of Mexican descent report sleep problems, clinicians should probe for environmental sleep factors associated with low income, such as noise, over-crowding and exposure to trauma and violence, and refer the woman to psychotherapy and counselling rather than merely prescribing a sleep medication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

itzhaki m., bar-tal y. & barnoy s. (2012) Reactions of staff members and lay people to family presence during resuscitation: the effect of visible bleeding, resuscitation outcome and gender. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(9), 1967-1977. Abstract Aim. This article is a report on a study conducted to examine the views of healthcare professionals and lay people regarding the effect of family presence during resuscitation on both the staff performing the resuscitation and the relatives who witness it. Background. Family presence during resuscitation is controversial. Although many professional groups in different countries have recently issued position statements about the practice and have recommended new policy moves, the Israel Ministry of Health has not issued guidelines on the matter. Methods. Study design is factorial within-between subjects. Data were collected in Israel in 2008 from a convenience sample of 220 lay people and 201 healthcare staff (52 physicians and 149 nurses) using a questionnaire based on eight different resuscitation scenarios and manipulating blood involvement and resuscitations outcome. Data were analysed using one-way analysis of variance. Findings. Overall, both staff and lay people perceived family presence during resuscitation negatively. Visible bleeding and an unsuccessful outcome significantly influenced both staff's and lay people's perceptions. Female physicians and nurses reacted more negatively to family presence than did male physicians and nurses; lay men responded more negatively than lay women. Conclusions. Changing the current negative perceptions of family presence at resuscitation requires (a) establishing a new national policy, (b) educating healthcare staff to the benefits of the presence of close relatives and (c) training staff to support relatives who want to be present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

chang c.-w., huang h.-c., chiang c.-y., hsu c.-p. & chang c.-c. (2011) Social capital and knowledge sharing: effects on patient safety. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(6), 1793-1803. Abstract Aims. This article is a report on a study that empirically examines the influence of social capital on knowledge sharing and the impact of knowledge sharing on patient safety. Background. Knowledge sharing is linked to many desirable managerial outcomes, including learning and problem-solving, which are essential for patient safety. Rather than studying the tangible effects of rewards, this study examines whether social capital (including social interaction, trust and shared vision) directly supports individual knowledge sharing in an organization. Methods. This cross-sectional study analysed data collected through a questionnaire survey of nurses from a major medical centre in northern Taiwan. The data were collected over a 9-month period from 2008 to 2009. The data analysis was conducted using the Partial Least Squares Graph v3.0 program to evaluate the measurement properties and the structural relationships specified in the research model. Findings. Based on a large-scale survey, empirical results indicate that Registered Nurses' perceptions of trust and shared vision have statistically significant and direct effects on knowledge sharing. In addition, knowledge sharing is significantly and positively associated with patient safety. Conclusion. The findings suggest that hospital administrators should foster group trust and initiate a common vision among Registered Nurses. In addition, administrators and chief knowledge officers of hospitals should encourage positive intentions towards knowledge sharing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ma c., chen s., you l., luo z. & xing c. (2012) Development and psychometric evaluation of the Treatment Adherence Questionnaire for Patients with Hypertension. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(6), 1402-1413. Abstract Aim. This article is a report of the development and psychometric testing of the Treatment Adherence Questionnaire for Patients with Hypertension. Background Hypertension is the most prevalent health problem among adult patients affecting approximately 200 million people in China and about 1 billion persons worldwide. Adherence to medication and lifestyle for hypertensive patients result in blood pressure control and reduce adverse outcomes. At present, few specific adherence instruments are available to completely evaluate medication and lifestyle for hypertensive patients. Methods. A multi-phase psychometric questionnaire development method was used to develop the instrument. The item pool was generated using literature review and focus group. Content validity was evaluated by expert panel. Then, the field testing was conducted by a convenience sampling of 278 hypertensive patients from December 2009 to May 2010 in Guangdong Province of China. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were used to test construct validity. Finally, internal consistency and test-retest reliability were assessed. Results. The new measure consisted of six dimensions with 28 items, explaining 62·54% of the total variance in the data. Confirmative factor analysis supported a good overall fit of the six-factor model. Cronbach's α of the overall questionnaire was 0·86 and 0·82 for test-retest reliability. Conclusions. The questionnaire was a brief and psychometrically sound instrument to evaluate hypertensive patients' treatment adherence and to be applied in the research and clinical fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

florin j., ehrenberg a., wallin l. & gustavsson p. (2011) Educational support for research utilization and capability beliefs regarding evidence-based practice skills: a national survey of senior nursing students. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(4), 888-897. Abstract Aim. The aim of the study was to investigate Swedish university nursing students' experience of educational support for research utilization and capability beliefs regarding evidence-based practice skills. Background. Nursing programmes are offered at 26 universities in Sweden and even though there are common regulations for nursing education at the national level, substantial variations are found in local curricula. Little is known about students' capability beliefs regarding evidence-based practice skills, particularly in comparison across universities. Methods. A cross-sectional survey design using self-administered postal questionnaires was conducted in 2006. A total of 1440 students (from 26 different universities) participated, constituting 68% of the national population of nursing students in their 6th and final semester. Results. Campus education supported the students to a greater extent than clinical education in following the development of knowledge in an area of interest, using research findings, and acquiring knowledge on how to pursue changes in clinical practice. Perceived support during campus education varied between universities. Students reported high capability beliefs regarding evidence-based practice skills, but large differences were found between universities for: stating a searchable question, seeking out relevant knowledge and critically appraising and compiling best knowledge. Conclusion. The identified differences between universities concerning the students' perceived support for research utilization and their capability beliefs regarding evidence-based practice skills have implications for curricula, pedagogical perspectives in nursing education and the potential to implement evidence-based practice in healthcare settings. Further studies are warranted to investigate students' individual characteristics and organizational characteristics as determinants of research utilization support and capability beliefs regarding evidence-based practice skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

merrick e., duffield c., baldwin r. & fry m. (2012) Nursing in general practice: organizational possibilities for decision latitude, created skill, social support, and identity derived from role. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(3), 614-624. Abstract Aim. This article is a report of a study to describe the factors that support organizational opportunities for practice nurse decision-making and skill development for nurses employed in general practice in New South Wales, Australia. Background. Corresponding to the availability of subsidies from the Australian universal health insurer (Medicare), there has been an increase in the number of nurses employed in general practice. Currently, there is no Australian evidence as to the organizational possibilities for these practice nurses to make decisions, develop their own skills and abilities, derive identity from their role or how their role is influenced by social support. Methods. Over a 8-month period in 2008 practice, nurses employed in general practice in the State of New South Wales were invited to complete a 26-item self-administered online questionnaire utilizing constructs from Job Content Questionnaire (valid n = 160). Results. Confirmatory Factor Analysis indicated that all scales demonstrated acceptable levels of internal consistency. Sequential regression models revealed that social support exerts a weak influence on decision latitude ( R2 = 0·07); the addition of self-identity through work significantly improved the predictive ability of the model ( R2 = 0·16). Social support and self-identity through work exerted a negative influence on created skill ( R2 = 0·347), whereas social support was effective in predicting self-identity through work ( R2 = 0·148). Conclusions. Collegial and supervisory support in the work environment predicts organizational possibilities for practice nurse decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wang L, Tao H, Ellenbecker CH & Liu X (2012) Job satisfaction, occupational commitment and intent to stay among Chinese nurses: a cross-sectional questionnaire survey. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(3), 539-549. Abstract Aim. This study was designed to identify the level of nurses' job satisfaction, occupational commitment and intent to stay among mainland Chinese nurses, to explore the relationship among them. Background. Little is known about the magnitude of Chinese nurses' intent to stay. Understanding the association among demographic characteristics and job satisfaction, occupational commitment and intent to stay among Chinese nurses is most important in a time of nurse shortages. Methods. A descriptive correlation design was used to examine the relationship among variables related to intent to stay. Data were collected by a self-administered survey questionnaire from 560 nurses working in four large hospital facilities in Shanghai in 2009. Results. The mean scores for nurses' job satisfaction, occupational commitment and intent to stay were 3·25(0·48), 3·11(0·40) and 3·56(0·65), respectively. Job satisfaction and occupational commitment were significantly related to intent to stay. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between occupational commitment and job satisfaction. Age and job position were significantly related to job satisfaction, occupational commitment and intent to stay. Conclusion. Levels of job satisfaction, occupational commitment and intent to stay reported by nurses in this study can be improved. Suggested strategies for improvement are: increasing salaries, decreasing workloads, modifying task structure, cultivating work passion and creating more professional opportunity for nurses' personal growth development and promotion. Enhancing nurses' job satisfaction and occupational commitment are vital to improve nurses' intent to stay and for strategies to address the nursing shortage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ganz f.d., raanan o., khalaila r., bennaroch k., scherman s., bruttin m., sastiel z., fink n.f. & benbenishty j. (2012) Moral distress and structural empowerment among a national sample of Israeli intensive care nurses. Journal of Advanced Nursing 69(2), 415-424. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2648.2012.06020.x Abstract Aim. The aim of this study was to determine levels of structural empowerment, moral distress, and the association between them among intensive care nurses. Background. Structural empowerment is the ability to access sources of power. Moral distress is the painful feelings experienced when a person knows the right thing to do but cannot do so due to external constraints. Several studies suggest a theoretical relationship between these concepts. Design. Cross-sectional, descriptive correlational study. Methods. Members of the Evidence Based Nursing Practice Committee of the Israeli Society for Cardiology and Critical Care Nurses recruited a convenience sample of intensive care nurses from their respective institutions and units. Nurses were asked to complete three questionnaires (demographic and work characteristics, Moral Distress Scale, and the Conditions of Work Effectiveness Questionnaire-II). Data were collected between May-September 2009. Results. Intensive Care nurses had moderate levels of structural empowerment, low levels of moral distress frequency, and moderately high moral distress intensity. A weak correlation was found between moral distress frequency and structural empowerment. No other structural empowerment component was associated with moral distress. Work characteristics as opposed to demographic characteristics were more associated with the study variables. Conclusions. This study weakly supports the association between structural empowerment and moral distress. It also provides further evidence to the theory of structural empowerment as characterized in the critical care environment. Further studies are indicated to determine what other factors might be associated with moral distress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]