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Aims: To elicit experiences of patients, family caregivers, and healthcare professionals in intermediate care units (IMCUs) in an academic medical centre in Baltimore, MD related to the challenges and intricacies of multimorbidity management to inform development of a multimorbidity symptom management toolkit. Design: Experience‐based co‐design. Methods: Between July and October 2021, patients aged 55 years and older with multimorbidity admitted to IMCUs at an academic medical centre in Baltimore, Maryland, USA were recruited and interviewed in person. Interdisciplinary healthcare professionals working in the IMCU were interviewed virtually. Participants were asked questions about their role in recognizing and treating symptoms, factors affecting the quality of life, symptom burden and trajectory over time, and strategies that have and have not worked for managing symptoms. An inductive thematic analysis approach was used for analysis. Results: Twenty‐three interviews were conducted: 9 patients, 2 family caregivers, and 12 healthcare professionals. Patients' mean age was 67.5 (±6.5) years, over half (n = 5) were Black or Hispanic, and the average number of comorbidities was 3.67. Five major themes that affect symptom management emerged: (1) the patient–provider relationship; (2) open and honest communication; (3) accessibility of resources during hospitalization and at discharge; (4) caregiver support, training, and education; and (5) care coordination and follow‐up care. Conclusion: Patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals often have similar goals but different priorities for multimorbidity management. It is imperative to identify shared priorities and target holistic interventions that consider patient and caregiver experiences to improve outcomes. Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care and Impact: This paper addresses the paucity of research related to the shared experience of disease trajectory and symptom management for people living with multimorbidity. We found that patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals often have similar goals but different care and communication priorities. Understanding differing priorities will help better design interventions to support symptom management so people with multimorbidity can have the best possible quality of life. Reporting Method: We have adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies (COREQ) guidelines in our reporting. Patient or Public Contribution: This study has been designed and implemented with patient and public involvement throughout the process, including community advisory board engagement in the project proposal phase and interview guide development, and member checking in the data collection and analysis phases. The method we chose, experience‐based co‐design, emphasizes the importance of engaging members of a community to act as experts in their own life challenges. In the coming phases of the study, the public will be involved in developing and testing a new intervention, informed by these qualitative interviews and co‐design events, to support symptom management for people with multimorbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To explore the relationship between nurse practitioner work environment and nurse practitioner outcomes (job satisfaction and intent to leave) in the United States. Design The study used a cross‐sectional survey design to collect survey data from primary care nurse practitioners in six states in the United States. Methods: We sent mail surveys to 5689 eligible nurse practitioners in Arizona, New Jersey, Washington, Pennsylvania, California and Texas. The mail also contained an online link. Participants could complete either the paper or online questionnaire. In total, 1244 participants completed the survey in 2018–2019. The work environment was measured using the Nurse Practitioner‐Primary Care Organizational Climate Questionnaire comprised of four subscales: Nurse Practitioner‐Administration Relations, Nurse Practitioner‐Physician Relations, Independent Practice and Support and Professional Visibility. Global items measured job satisfaction and intent to leave. We used mixed‐effect proportional‐odds cumulative logit models to assess the association between work environment and job satisfaction and intent to leave. Results: Overall, 90% of participants were either very satisfied or somewhat satisfied with their job and 22% reported intent to leave their job in 1 year. With a one‐unit increase in the organizational‐level Nurse Practitioner‐Administration Relations score, the odds of having a higher job satisfaction level increased by about four times and the odds of intent to leave job decreased by about 60%. A higher organizational‐level Nurse Practitioner‐Physician Relations score was significantly associated with higher job satisfaction and lower odds of intent to leave. Conclusion: Improvements in work environments may improve nurse practitioner job satisfaction and retention. Impact This study examined the relationship between work environment, job satisfaction and turnover intention of nurse practitioners. Better work environment is associated with higher job satisfaction and lower turnover intention. Findings have implications for clinical leadership who can take actions to create better work environments to increase the nurse practitioner workforce capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

brewer c.s., kovner c.t., greene w., tukov-shuser m. & djukic m. (2012) Predictors of actual turnover in a national sample of newly licensed registered nurses employed in hospitals. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(3), 521-538. Abstract Aim. This paper is a report of a study of factors that affect turnover of newly licensed registered nurses in United States hospitals. Background. There is a large body of research related to nursing retention; however, there is little information specific to newly licensed registered nurse turnover. Incidence rates of turnover among new nurses are unknown because most turnover data are not from nationally representative samples of nurses. Method. This study used a longitudinal panel design to obtain data from 1653 registered nurses who were recently licensed by examination for the first time. We mailed surveys to a nationally representative sample of hospital registered nurses 1 year apart. The analytic sample consisted of 1653 nurses who responded to both survey mailings in January of 2006 and 2007. Results. Full-time employment and more sprains and strains (including back injuries) result in more turnover. Higher intent to stay and hours of voluntary overtime and more than one job for pay reduces turnover. When we omitted intent to stay from the probit model, less job satisfaction and organizational commitment led to more turnover, confirming their importance to turnover. Magnet Recognition Award® hospitals and several other work attributes had no effect on turnover. Conclusion. Turnover problems are complex, which means that there is no one solution to decreasing turnover. Multiple points of intervention exist. One specific approach that may improve turnover rates is hospital policies that reduce strains and sprains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

suhonen r., papastavrou e., efstathiou g., lemonidou c., kalafati m., da luz m.d.a., idvall e., berg a., acaroglu r., sendir m., kanan n., sousa v.d., katajisto j., välimäki m. & leino-kilpi h. (2011) Nurses' perceptions of individualized care: an international comparison. Journal of Advanced Nursing 67(9), 1895-1907. Abstract Aim. This paper is a report of a study of internationally-based differences in nurses' perceptions of individualized care in orthopaedic surgical in-patient wards. Background. Individualized care is valued in healthcare policy, practice and ethical statements as an indicator of care quality. However, nurses' assessments of individualized care are limited and comparative cross-cultural studies on individualized nursing care are lacking. Methods. A descriptive comparative survey was used to sample orthopaedic surgical nurses ( n = 1163) working in 91 inpatient wards in 34 acute hospitals in Finland, Cyprus, Greece, Portugal, Sweden, Turkey and the United States of America. Data were collected between March and November 2009 using the Individualized Care Scale-Nurse and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results. Nurses in different countries perceived that they supported patients' individuality generally and provided individualized care during nursing activities. Although the highest scores were in support of patients' individuality in the clinical situation both through nursing provision and nurses' perceptions of individuality, there were between-country differences within these scores. Generally, the Greek and American nurses gave the highest scores and the Turkish, Cypriot and Portuguese nurses the lowest. Conclusions. Between-country differences found may be attributed to differing roles of nurses, care processes, healthcare systems and/or the ways nursing care is defined and organized. As this was the first time the Individualized Care Scale-Nurse was used in an international context, the results are formative and indicate the need to continue studies in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims. This paper is a report of a study of perceived levels of mental, physical and total fatigue, and also acute and chronic fatigue states, among registered nurses. Relationships between dimensions of fatigue and performance were investigated, as were differences in fatigue across levels of several demographic and work environment variables. Background. Fatigue is a factor that has been linked to performance decrements in healthcare workers. As a result of the nature of their work, nurses may be particularly susceptible to multiple dimensions of fatigue, and their performance is closely linked to patient safety. Methods. An online survey was used to measure mental, physical, and total fatigue dimensions, acute and chronic fatigue states, and performance. Participants were recruited via convenience sampling in cooperation with professional nursing organizations; 745 registered nurses completed the survey between February 2008 and April 2009. Results. Reported mental fatigue levels were higher than physical fatigue levels, and acute fatigue levels were higher than chronic fatigue levels. All fatigue dimensions and states were negatively correlated with perceived performance. Longer shift lengths and hours worked per week were associated with increases in physical and total fatigue levels. Mental, physical and total fatigue levels also differed with shift schedule. Conclusions. Fatigue levels were negatively correlated with performance, further supporting the role of fatigue in nurse performance. Work environment variables were strongly associated with differences in perceived levels of fatigue. By altering the work environment, it may thus be possible to reduce fatigue levels and the rates of medical errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. This paper is a report of a comparison of advice on lifestyle given by healthcare providers and subsequent action by recipients between Korean Americans and native Koreans with hypertension. Background. High blood pressure is controllable by having a healthy lifestyle, such as weight control, dietary change, exercise, low-sodium diet, alcohol restriction and ' smoking cessation, and by taking medication. Healthcare providers play an important role in teaching individuals with hypertension on healthy lifestyles. Method. This descriptive comparative study was conducted with a convenience sample of 100 Korean Americans and 100 native Koreans with hypertension. They were interviewed between May 2003 and June 2004 on the advice they received from healthcare providers on lifestyle and their subsequent action in terms of taking medication, weight control, dietary change, exercise, low-sodium diet, smoking cessation, alcohol restriction and tension reduction. Nutrient profiles were examined using the 24-hour dietary recall method. Findings. Korean Americans received advice on lifestyle less than did native Koreans, but more Korean Americans followed healthy lifestyle advice on dietary change and exercise than did native Koreans (P < 0.001). Weight control was the least adhered to behaviour among the Korean Americans, although almost two-thirds of them were overweight or obese. Both groups exceeded the Dietary Reference Intakes of sodium, but perceived their sodium consumption as low. Conclusion. Native Korean participants need to pay closer attention to carrying out the advice, whereas healthcare providers to Korean Americans need to give more advice on culturally acceptable healthy lifestyles, particularly on dietary changes and weight control. Both groups need to monitor their sodium intake more realistically. It is not only advice from healthcare providers that is integral to control of hypertension, but also that patients should follow that advice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

li w.-w., wallhagen m.i. & froelicher e.s. (2010) Factors predicting blood pressure control in older Chinese immigrants to the United States of America. Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(10), 2202–2212. Aim. This paper is a report of a study of the extent to which demographic characteristics, medication-related factors, hypertension-related knowledge and medication adherence predict systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Background. Little is known about predictors of hypertension control in Chinese elders. Methods. A longitudinal study with a 3-month follow-up was conducted with 90 Chinese immigrants to the United States of America aged ≥65 years and recruited from 2006 to 2007. The independent variables were measured at baseline. Blood pressure was measured at 3 months. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the independent effects of seven variables on change in blood pressure at 3 months. Results. Participants ranged in age from 66 to 92 years (Mean 76·7,sd 6·6). The overall regression model for systolic blood pressure was statistically significant ( R2 = 0·32, F = 4·37, P < 0·01). A higher number of prescribed oral medications (sr2 = 0·06, t = 2·42, P = 0·02) and lower medication adherence (sr2 = 0·07, t = −2·60, P = 0·01) were statistically significant determinants of an increased systolic blood pressure. The overall regression model for diastolic blood pressure was statistically significant ( R2 = 0·21, F = 2·39, P = 0·03). Male gender (sr2 = 0·06, t = 2·26, P = 0·03) and lower medication adherence (sr2 = 0·11, t = −3·03, P < 0·01) were statistically significant determinants of an increased diastolic blood pressure. Conclusion. A greater number of prescribed medications and lower adherence predicted higher level of systolic blood pressure. Male gender and lower adherence were significantly associated with higher level of diastolic blood pressure. These predictors should be considered when designing interventions to help Chinese elders achieve better hypertension management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We tested key hypotheses derived from the Cultural Determinants of Trauma Recovery Theory (CDTR) with an American sample. Design: A cross‐sectional study using anonymous online surveys. Methods: This study was conducted with 225 American survivors of gender‐based violence (GBV) between August to November 2019. Demographics, distress (depression: PHQ8; PTSD: PCL‐5), mental health service utilization (counselling and medication), sense of coherence (SOC), internal barriers to help‐seeking (shame, frozen and problem management subscales: BHS‐TR Internal) and the GBV healing (GBV‐Heal) were used. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was conducted to test the hypotheses. Results: The final SEM model showed that the relationship between distress and mental health service utilization was not mediated by internal help‐seeking barriers; the relationship between distress and trauma healing was partially mediated by internal help‐seeking barriers; the relationship between internal help‐seeking barriers and trauma healing was partially mediated by SOC; mental health service utilization was not significantly associated with trauma healing. Overall, the relationship between distress and trauma healing was partially mediated by internal help‐seeking barriers and SOC. Conclusions: This study confirmed some hypothetical pathways between distress and trauma healing. Further research with larger and international samples should be necessary to test the overall CDTR and compare groups. Impact: This study can help us focus on psychological interventions that enhance meaning and mitigate internal help‐seeking barriers to promote holistic trauma recovery. Public and public contribution: The sample was gathered from a clinical population registry that alerts patients of potential research opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Advanced Nursing (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.) is the property of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Aims: Explore the knowledge, experiences, preferences, and concerns related to fertility preservation as an option for building a biological family among women with cystic fibrosis. Design: Convergent mixed methods study design. Methods: We recruited women with cystic fibrosis of childbearing age in the United States through cystic fibrosis centres, snowball sampling, and social media. Participants completed an anonymous survey about fertility and fertility preservation (n = 50). We also conducted audio‐recorded, semi‐structured interviews with a subset of women to gain a better understanding of their perspectives (n = 20). We transcribed the interviews verbatim and analysed them using thematic analysis. Results: For the quantitative arm, 78% of women indicated that they would like to have a child in the future; however, 74% reported never having had conversations about fertility preservation with their providers. For the qualitative arm, four major themes emerged: (1) Women with cystic fibrosis have inadequate knowledge about fertility and fertility preservation; (2) fertility is a low priority area for the cystic fibrosis care team; (3) women with cystic fibrosis recommend that the cystic fibrosis care team provide specific fertility resources; and (4) providers and literature lack information on fertility and cystic fibrosis. Integrated findings identified that while the majority of women with cystic fibrosis want to become mothers in the future, including post‐lung transplantation, they have not received education on fertility preservation, and there is a general lack of knowledge on the topic of fertility in cystic fibrosis. Conclusion: Women with cystic fibrosis desire to have children but have little knowledge about fertility preservation, and cystic fibrosis providers do not initiate family planning discussions. Impact: Findings from the study support that additional education is needed for women with cystic fibrosis who are considering parenthood. Clinical care models should include early, regular, and thoughtful discussions about reproductive health issues, including fertility preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Advanced Nursing (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.) is the property of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Advanced Nursing (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.) is the property of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Advanced Nursing (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.) is the property of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Advanced Nursing (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.) is the property of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Aims: The aim of this study was to examine relationships among subjective cognitive complaints, psychosocial factors and nursing work function in nurses providing direct patient care. Background: Cognitive functioning is a critical component for nurses in the assurance of error prevention, identification and correction when caring for patients. Negative changes in nurses' cognitive and psychosocial functioning can adversely affect nursing care and patient outcomes. Design: A descriptive correlational design with stratified random sampling. Method: The sample included 96 nurses from the major geographic regions of the United States. Over 9 months in 2016-2017, data were collected using a webbased survey. Stepwise multiple linear regression analyses were used to examine relationships among subjective cognitive complaints, psychosocial factors and nursing work function. Results: Overall, participants reported minimal work function impairment and low levels of subjective cognitive complaints, depression and stress. In multivariate analyses, depression was not associated with nurses' work function. However, perceived stress and subjective concerns about cognitive function were associated with greater impairment of work function. Conclusion: Nurses experiencing subjective cognitive complaints should be encouraged to address personal and environmental factors that are associated with their cognitive status. Additionally, stress reduction in nurses should be a high priority as a potential intervention to promote optimal functioning of nurses providing direct patient care. Healthcare institutions should integrate individual and institutional strategies to reduce factors contributing to workplace stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To examine the relative effects of interpersonal conflict and workload on job outcomes (turnover intentions, burnout, injuries) and examine if resilience moderates the indirect effects of conflict and workload on job outcomes via job-related negative effect. Background There is interest in understanding resilience in the nursing profession. Placing resilience in the context of the Emotion-Centred Model of Occupational Stress (Spector, ) is a novel approach to understanding how resilience ameliorates the negative effects of workplace stressors. Design This study used a two-wave survey design to collect data from 97 nurses across medical units. Methods Nurses working in the US were recruited in June 2014 using Qualtrics Panels, an online survey platform service that secures participants for research. Nurses were contacted via email at two time points, two weeks apart and provided a link to an online survey. SPSS v. 23 and PROCESS v2.15 were used to analyse regressions and moderated mediation. Results/Findings Interpersonal conflict predicted turnover intentions and burnout; workload predicted injuries. Job-related negative affect mediated the relationships between stressors and job outcomes except for the direct effect of workload on injuries. Low resilience increased the magnitude of the indirect effects of conflict on job outcomes. Conclusion Job characteristics like workload predicted unique variability in self-reported physical injuries. Conflict at work, a social stressor, predicted well-being and job attitudes. Highly resilient nurses bounced back after experiencing conflict in the workplace. Resilience should be explored for its potential as a method to reduce the negative effects of social stressors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aim of this study was to achieve profession-wide consensus on an Australian nurse practitioner specialty framework. Background Since its introduction in 1998, the Australian nurse practitioner profession has grown to over 1300 endorsed practitioners, representing over 50 different specialties. To complement better a generalist learning and teaching framework with specialist clinical education, prior research proposed a broad framework of Australian nurse practitioner specialty areas termed metaspecialties. Design This study employed an online three-round modified Delphi method. Method Recruitment using purposive sampling and snowballing techniques identified an eligible sample from a population of nurse practitioners with at least 12 months' postendorsement experience ( n = 966). Data were collected using online survey software from September 2014-January 2015 and analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. The Content Validity Index and McNemar's Test for Change were used to determine consensus on the nurse practitioner metaspecialties. Results One-fifth of the total eligible population completed the study. Participants achieved high consensus on four metaspecialties, including: Emergency and acute care, primary health care, child and family health care and mental health care. Two metaspecialties did not achieve consensus and require further investigation. Conclusion A large sample of nurse practitioners achieved consensus on an Australian metaspecialty framework, increasing the likelihood of widespread acceptance across the profession. This technique may be appropriate for use in jurisdictions with smaller populations of nurse practitioners. Ongoing research is needed to re-evaluate the metaspecialties as the profession grows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To empirically validate a conceptual model of Clinical Nurse Leader integrated care delivery. Background There is limited evidence of frontline care delivery models that consistently achieve quality patient outcomes. Clinical Nurse Leader integrated care delivery is a promising nursing model with a growing record of success. However, theoretical clarity is necessary to generate causal evidence of effectiveness. Design Sequential mixed methods. Methods A preliminary Clinical Nurse Leader practice model was refined and survey items developed to correspond with model domains, using focus groups and a Delphi process with a multi-professional expert panel. The survey was administered in 2015 to clinicians and administrators involved in Clinical Nurse Leader initiatives. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling were used to validate the measurement and model structure. Results Final sample n = 518. The model incorporates 13 components organized into five conceptual domains: 'Readiness for Clinical Nurse Leader integrated care delivery'; 'Structuring Clinical Nurse Leader integrated care delivery'; 'Clinical Nurse Leader Practice: Continuous Clinical Leadership'; 'Outcomes of Clinical Nurse Leader integrated care delivery'; and 'Value'. Sample data had good fit with specified model and two-level measurement structure. All hypothesized pathways were significant, with strong coefficients suggesting good fit between theorized and observed path relationships. Conclusions The validated model articulates an explanatory pathway of Clinical Nurse Leader integrated care delivery, including Clinical Nurse Leader practices that result in improved care dynamics and patient outcomes. The validated model provides a basis for testing in practice to generate evidence that can be deployed across the healthcare spectrum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Sexual risk behaviour was explored and described using Social Action Theory. Background The sexual transmission of HIV is complex and multi-factorial. Social Action Theory provides a framework for viewing self-regulation of modifiable behaviour such as condom use. Condom use is viewed within the context of social interaction and interdependence. Design Cross-sectional survey. Methods Self-report questionnaire administered to adults living with HIV/ AIDS, recruited from clinics, service organizations and by active outreach, between 2010 - 2011. Findings Having multiple sex partners with inconsistent condom use during a 3-month recall period was associated with being male, younger age, having more years of education,substance use frequency and men having sex with men being a mode of acquiring HIV. In addition, lower self-efficacy for condom use scores were associated with having multiple sex partners and inconsistent condom use. Conclusion Social Action Theory provided a framework for organizing data from an international sample of seropositive persons. Interventions for sexually active, younger, HIV positive men who have sex with men, that strengthen perceived efficacy for condom use, and reduce the frequency of substance use, may contribute to reducing HIV-transmission risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To conduct a qualitative needs assessment of Directors of Nursing regarding challenges and recommendations for addressing sexual expression and consent. Background Sexual expression management among long-term care residents is a complex issue for nursing home staff. Little guidance is available for those wanting to follow a person-centred approach. Policies and procedures are needed, and must be usable across long-term care settings. Design Qualitative design for in-depth exploration. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 Directors of Nursing in the spring and summer of 2013, representing a range of regions, facility sizes and resident populations. Interview questions prompted them to identify recommendations that address challenges to improving sexual expression management in long-term care settings. Results Comparative thematic analysis resulted in several codes, which were grouped into eight overall categories. Recommendation categories that addressed key challenges included: address the issue, make environmental changes, identify staff expertise, provide education and training, assess sexuality initially and recurrently, establish policies/procedures for sexual expression management, develop assessment tools for sexual expression and consent, and clarify legal issues. The recommendation to develop national guidelines was observed across categories. Discussion Directors of Nursing report several challenges to sexual expression management in their facilities, and perceive their current methods to be ad hoc. A proactive approach to policy and procedure development is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim We explored how acculturation and self-actualization affect depression in the HIV-positive Asians and Pacific Islanders immigrant population. Background Asians and Pacific Islanders are among the fastest growing minority groups in the USA. Asians and Pacific Islanders are the only racial/ethnic group to show a significant increase in HIV diagnosis rate. Design A mixed-methods study was conducted. Methods Thirty in-depth interviews were conducted with HIV-positive Asians and Pacific Islanders in San Francisco and New York. Additionally, cross-sectional audio computer-assisted self-interviews were conducted with a sample of 50 HIV-positive Asians and Pacific Islanders. Content analysis was used to analyse the in-depth interviews. Also, descriptive, bivariate statistics and multivariable regression analysis was used to estimate the associations among depression, acculturation and self-actualization. The study took place from January-June 2013. Discussion Major themes were extracted from the interview data, including self-actualization, acculturation and depression. The participants were then divided into three acculturation levels correlating to their varying levels of self-actualization. For those with low acculturation, there was a large discrepancy in the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale scores between those who had totally lost their self-actualization and those who believed they could still achieve their 'American dreams'. Among those who were less acculturated, there was a significant difference in depression scores between those who felt they had totally lost their ability to self-actualize and those who still believed they could 'make their dreams come true.' Conclusion Acculturation levels influence depression and self-actualization in the HIV-positive Asians and Pacific Islanders population. Lower acculturated Asian Americans achieved a lower degree of self-actualization and suffered from depression. Future interventions should focus on enhancing acculturation and reducing depression to achieve self-actualization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim This article describes the rationale, design and methodology of the Building research initiative group: chronic illness management and ad herence in transplantation ( BRIGHT) study. This study of heart transplant patients will: (1) describe practice patterns relating to chronic illness management; (2) assess prevalence and variability of non-adherence to the treatment regimen; (3) determine the multi-level factors related to immunosuppressive medication non-adherence. Background The unaltered long-term prognosis after heart transplantation underscores an urgent need to identify and improve factors related to survival outcomes. The healthcare system (e.g. level of chronic illness management implemented) and patient self-management are major drivers of outcome improvement. Design The study uses a survey design in 40 heart transplant centres covering 11 countries in four continents. Methods Theoretical frameworks informed variable selection, which are measured by established and investigator-developed instruments. Heart transplant recipients, outpatient clinicians and programme's directors complete a survey. A staged convenience sampling strategy is implemented in heart transplant centres, countries and continents. Depending on the centre's size, a random sample of 25-60 patients is selected (N estimated 1680 heart transplant recipients). Five randomly selected clinicians and the medical director from each centre will be invited to participate. Conclusion This is the first multi-centre, multi-continental study examining healthcare system and heart transplant centres chronic illness management practice patterns and potential correlates of immunosuppressive medication non-adherence. The knowledge gained will inform clinicians, researchers and healthcare policy makers at which level(s) interventions need to be implemented to improve long-term outcomes for transplant recipients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aim of this study was to describe factors that influence decisions of young African Americans to start smoking. Background Young adult African Americans have a high risk for becoming regular smokers, but little is understood about their smoking. This knowledge is needed because understanding young adults' smokers will help develop effective tobacco cessation and prevention strategies. Design Qualitative study. Method The study consisted of 22 in-depth interviews with African Americans between the ages of 19-25. Data were collected between 2009-2010. Smokers, former smokers and non-smokers were included. Results/findings Results indicated that smoking identity of young adults was influenced by their limited and discounted knowledge of health risks and the stigma associated with the type of tobacco smoked. The importance of cost was discussed as was the effect of smoking on relationships and vice versa. Marijuana was the primary reason they started smoking tobacco. Their transition into adulthood and views of smoking, adulthood and success all influenced smoking. Additionally, self-reflection on personal choices around smoking was important and may be useful in effective smoking cessation programmes for this group. Conclusion Nurses are in an ideal position to promote effective smoking cessation in young adults. Direct, culturally relevant messages are needed that fit into the context of the young adults' lives by addressing concurrent use of marijuana, self-esteem and success in life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims We examined the impact of workplace relationships (perceived organizational support, supervisor-nurse relationships and teamwork) on the engagement, well-being, organizational commitment and turnover intentions of nurses working in Australian and USA hospitals. Background In a global context of nurse shortages, knowledge about factors impacting nurse retention is urgently sought. We postulated, using the Social Exchange Theory, that nurses' turnover intentions would be affected by several factors and especially their relationships at work. Design Based on the literature review, data were collected via a self-report survey to test the hypotheses. Methods A self-report survey was used to gather data in 2010-2012 from 510 randomly chosen nurses from Australian hospitals and 718 nurses from US hospitals. A multi-group structural equation modelling analysis identified significant paths and compared the impact between countries. Results The findings indicate that this model was more effective in predicting the correlations between variables for nurses in Australia compared with the USA. Most paths predicted were confirmed for Australia, except for the impact of teamwork on organizational commitment and turnover, plus the impact of engagement on turnover. In contrast, none of the paths related to supervisor-subordinate relationships was significant for the USA; neither were the paths from teamwork to organizational commitment or turnover. Conclusion Our findings suggest that well-being is a predictor of turnover intentions, meaning that healthcare managers need to consider nurses' well-being in everyday decision-making, especially in the cost-cutting paradigm that pervades healthcare provision in nearly every country. This is important because nurses are in short supply and this situation will continue to worsen, because many countries have an ageing population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To report the psychometric testing of the Household Risk Perception and Self-Efficacy in Environmental Risk Reduction instruments using principal components analysis. Background There are limited instruments available to test household risk perception and self-efficacy related to environmental health behaviours. The Household Risk Perception instrument was developed to measure personal perceptions of household environmental health risks. The Self-Efficacy in Environmental Risk Reduction instrument was designed to measure caregivers' confidence in taking steps to reduce household risks. Design An exploratory analysis of previous data was undertaken. Method Baseline data from 235 caregivers enrolled in a randomized clinical trial testing a healthy housing intervention were collected between 2006-2009. Principal components analysis was used to determine principal components from measured responses to each instrument. Results Components were explored and compared to constructs used to design the original instruments. A five-component structure showed the simplest solution and explained 65% of variance in the Household Risk Perception analysis. Cronbach's alpha values indicated satisfactory internal consistency for four of five identified components. Risk perception varied according to available sensory input of the specific risk. A four-component structure explained 64% of the variance in the Self-Efficacy in Environmental Risk Reduction analysis. Cronbach's alpha values were satisfactory. Items mapped to steps in an action-oriented process vs. agent-specific actions. Results from both analyses suggest that environmental tobacco smoke is perceived differently than other household risks. Conclusion Previously, both instruments relied on item reliability and content validity testing. This study provides a basis for further instrument revision and theoretical testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

gutierrez a.p., candela l.l. & carver l. (2012) The structural relationships between organizational commitment, global job satisfaction, developmental experiences, work values, organizational support, and person-organization fit among nursing faculty. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(7), 1601-1614. Abstract Aim. The aim of this correlational study was to examine the relations between organizational commitment, perceived organizational support, work values, person-organization fit, developmental experiences, and global job satisfaction among nursing faculty. Background. The global nursing shortage is well documented. At least 57 countries have reported critical shortages. The lack of faculty is finally being recognized as a major issue directly influencing the ability to admit and graduate adequate numbers of nurses. As efforts increase to both recruit and retain faculty, the concept of organizational commitment and what it means to them is important to consider. Design. A cross-sectional correlational design was used. Methods. The present study investigated the underlying structure of various organizational factors using structural equation modelling. Data were collected from a stratified random sample of nurse faculty during the academic year 2006-2007. Results. The final model demonstrated that perceived organizational support, developmental experiences, person-organization fit, and global job satisfaction positively predicted nurse faculty's organizational commitment to the academic organization. Cross-validation results indicated that the final full SEM is valid and reliable. Conclusions. Nursing faculty administrators able to use mentoring skills are well equipped to build positive relationships with nursing faculty, which in turn, can lead to increased organizational commitment, productivity, job satisfaction, and perceived organizational support, among others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. This article is a report of the development and psychometric testing of the Spiritual Care Inventory. Background. Research supporting the positive association between spirituality and health has lead to interest in providing spiritual care in healthcare settings. Few instruments exist that measure the provision of spiritual care. Method. In February/March 2007, a convenience sample of 298 adult and paediatric acute care, ambulatory, home health, hospice staff and rehab nurses at two hospitals ( n = 248) and graduate students at a school of nursing ( n = 50) completed a 48-item initial version of the Spiritual Care Inventory. In study 2 from July through August 2007, 78 staff nurses at one hospital ( n = 30) and a different cohort of graduate students at a school of nursing ( n = 48) completed the 18-item second version of the Spiritual Care Inventory. Results. Exploratory factor analysis in study 1 supported a 3-factor solution (spiritual care interventions, meaning making and faith rituals) with internal consistency measures for the subscales above 0·80. In study 2, internal consistency remained high. Conclusion. Factor structures identify that spiritual care is a process of intervention, meaning making and faith rituals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. This article is a report of a study of the use of predictive analysis using the Bayesian hierarchical model and small area estimation as an innovative methodology to address the challenges nurses face when managing fiscal and clinical resources in outpatient and inpatient settings. Background. Nurses responsible for clinic management are confronted with the fiscal challenges in today's healthcare environment. Identifying those at risk for asymptomatic infections such as chlamydia and getting resources to that group has been a constant nursing care challenge for those in outpatient and inpatient clinics. Methods. A secondary analysis of quantitative survey data was conducted in 2008, using predictive analysis with the Bayesian hierarchical model and small area estimation of statistics. Discussion. The development of an innovative statistical procedure is an interesting and challenging opportunity. The opportunity to apply this innovative technique to an actual data set opens the possibility to replicating the technique and using it in other settings. If implemented and replicated, this innovative analysis can become a tool for managing limited fiscal and clinical resources. Results. White, Hispanic and African American undergraduate students had slightly higher rates than the corresponding graduate students. The incidence rates were higher for White, Hispanic and African American undergraduate students than for graduate students. The incidence rates for African Americans were much higher than for the other identified racial groups, but very similar for graduate students and undergraduate students. Conclusion. Predictive analysis using the Bayesian hierarchal model and small area estimation can help nurses to project healthcare costs and services for underserved groups in healthcare clinics, with an improved empirical rationale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]