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The number of international students arriving in the UK to study nursing is on the rise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is seven years since #hellomynameis founder Kate Granger died, but as the campaign for a friendlier health service that she instigated ten years ago continues to thrive, her widower believes she is 'smiling down'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why you should read this article: • To enhance your understanding of vaccine hesitancy and its determinants • To recognise the potential effects of negative and conflicting vaccination information on social media platforms • To consider strategies you could use to address vaccine hesitancy and misinformation on social media in your practice Vaccine hesitancy, defined as the refusal or delay of acceptance of vaccines, is a threat to the elimination and/or eradication of vaccine-preventable diseases, and therefore has significant implications for global health. Negative and conflicting vaccination information on social media can lead to vaccine hesitancy, including among parents who need to decide whether to have their children vaccinated. This article discusses the dissemination and content of vaccination information on social media, and explores the effects this can have on vaccine hesitancy and uptake. It also outlines various strategies that nurses can use to address vaccine hesitancy and misinformation on social media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article provides guidance for clinicians on assessment and care of people with eating and drinking difficulties. Topics discussed include remarks from Chief Admiral Nurse and chief executive of Dementia UK Hilda Hayo, determinants of successful eating and drinking, and explanation on risk feeding.

The article explores challenges generated by the Covid-19 pandemic in relation to community end of life care in the United Kingdom (UK). Topics discussed include principles of end of life care, outcomes of a rapid review on the role and response of primary care and community palliative care nursing during epidemics and pandemics, published by the Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, and effects of wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) on communication.

Around 43,000 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer in the UK each year and it is the country's fourth most common cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resuscitation Council UK ReSPECT (Recommended summary plan for emergency care and treatment) clinical lead Catherine Baldock and legal adviser for the ReSPECT process Alex Ruck Keene KC (Hon) answer some of the questions most frequently asked about do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DNACPR) recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ever thought of leaving your job, or even the NHS altogether? A programme being rolled out across England aims to convince nurses to stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disabled people are one of the groups in society with the greatest health needs, yet they experience some of the most significant barriers to accessing healthcare services. This article describes examples of how three healthcare services have met the Equality Act 2010 duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people, so that they are not disadvantaged in accessing these services. Each of these services identified disabled patients, and considered and recorded the specific reasonable adjustments that were required. In doing so, they took time to fully understand the needs of the individual from their perspective. The services collaborated and coordinated the provision of reasonably adjusted care by communicating effectively with other health and social care providers, working together as a team, and treating disabled people as individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article analyzes the impact of Great Britain's exit from the European Union (EU) on the supply of medicines and other supplies. Nurses have expressed concerns that Brexit will result in issues such as drug or product substitutions and stockpiling by patients. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has warned about added workload for nurses and the effect of Brexit on the National Health Service (NHS).

How do you describe what you do? Do you present a clear image of your role, its complexity, the fact that it's pivotal to patient care? Or do you say you are 'just a nurse'? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced nurse practitioners, and nurses aspiring to this role, are required to understand how to communicate effectively and on a collaborative basis with patients and carers during consultations, with the aim of enhancing patient outcomes such as improved patient satisfaction, ability to self-manage healthcare needs and adherence to care plans. This article explores collaborative communication in consultations and how best to achieve this, using the author's doctoral observational research based on the findings of a mixed methods observational study of communication in advanced clinical practice patient consultations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The care paradigm for patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has changed from managing an infectious condition with a suboptimal prognosis, to managing a long-term chronic disease. The wellness thermometer is a tool that was developed to assist with monitoring the biological, psychological, social and spiritual well-being of patients with HIV. Aim To evaluate the effectiveness of using the wellness thermometer in healthcare consultations with patients with HIV. Method This was a service evaluation that was undertaken in three UK HIV clinics in 2014. After using the wellness thermometer, patients and healthcare professionals completed a survey to indicate whether they felt the tool improved their consultations. Results A total of 231 patients completed the survey. It was found that 80% (n=185) of patients felt the wellness thermometer helped to identify their concerns, while 79% (n=182) of patients felt the wellness thermometer improved their conversation with the healthcare professional. Of the 12 healthcare professionals who completed the survey, most felt that the tool helped patients to identify their concerns (n=10) and that it was easy to use (n=11). Conclusion There are several benefits associated with using the wellness thermometer in healthcare consultations, and it may support patients with HIV to report any concerns they have in relation to their treatment and quality of life. The authors envisage that the tool will become a routine part of the care of these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background People with learning disabilities experience significant inequalities in accessing healthcare. Legal frameworks, such as the Equality Act 2010, are intended to reduce such disparities in care, and require organisations to make 'reasonable adjustments' for people with disabilities, including learning disabilities. However, reasonable adjustments are often not clearly defined or adequately implemented in clinical practice. Aim To examine and synthesise the challenges in caring for people with learning disabilities to develop a framework for making reasonable adjustments for people with learning disabilities in hospital. This framework would assist ward staff in identifying and managing the challenges of delivering person-centred, safe and effective healthcare to people with learning disabilities in this setting. Method Fourth-generation evaluation, collaborative thematic analysis, reflection and a secondary analysis were used to develop a framework for making reasonable adjustments in the hospital setting. The authors attended ward manager and matron group meetings to collect their claims, concerns and issues, then conducted a collaborative thematic analysis with the group members to identify the main themes. Findings Four main themes were identified from the ward manager and matron group meetings: communication, choice-making, collaboration and coordination. These were used to develop the 4C framework for making reasonable adjustments for people with learning disabilities in hospital. Discussion The 4C framework has provided a basis for delivering person-centred care for people with learning disabilities. It has been used to inform training needs analyses, develop audit tools to review delivery of care that is adjusted appropriately to the individual patient; and to develop competencies for learning disability champions. The most significant benefit of the AC framework has been in helping to evaluate and resolve practice-based scenarios. Conclusion Use of the4C framework may enhance the care of people with learning disabilities in hospital, by enabling reasonable adjustments to be made in these settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To use qualitative data collection approaches to enhance insight and understanding of the NHS England Youth Forum, including its role, value and potential effects. Method A qualitative evaluation research approach was used. Two focus groups were conducted: one with five young people from the NHS England Youth Forum and another with five members of the Adult Reference Group that supports the forum's work. Individual semi-structured interviews were undertaken with four employees of NHS England and the British Youth Council who had a central role in the development and implementation of the forum. Findings The members of the NHS England Youth Forum were participating in an extensive range of activities, and their work is having a direct and positive influence on the provision of healthcare services. The day-to-day management of the forum, in terms of personnel, time and commitment, should be acknowledged. Conclusion Young people are not only highly capable of participating in decision making related to healthcare, but also want to be involved and value the opportunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complaints and their management are an important indicator of the quality of care. Therefore, effective management of complaints is central to improve services and prioritise an open, honest and transparent health service. However, there is scope for NHS organisations to improve their response to complaints. This article outlines the NHS complaints procedure, focusing on how nurses can develop essential skills to help them to improve their management of any complaints that arise in their clinical area. It provides a structured framework, identifying useful communication skills, and explores how managing complaints relates to a nurse's statutory duty of candour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-harm is a public health issue that accounts for thousands of presentations at hospital each year. Self-harm commonly involves self-injury by cutting, burning or poisoning. The incidence of self-harm is increasing in the UK, particularly in young people. Research suggests that people who self-harm experience negative attitudes from healthcare staff, including nurses, on presentation to healthcare services. This is an ethical issue in nursing practice that has implications for the quality of care provided. Nurses with a lack of mental health training provide care for patients who self-harm in emergency departments and acute medical settings. This article presents a literature review exploring the factors affecting nurses' attitudes towards patients hospitalised for self-harm and makes recommendations for improving practice. The article identifies requirements for nurse education and training in mental health and effective provision of care for patients who self-harm and present at the emergency department. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of people with diabetes in the UK is increasing. Many are aged over 75 years, and this has resulted in rising numbers of patients for whom diabetes exists comorbidly with other disease processes. Those with life-limiting illness require palliative care services. However, end of life care for patients with diabetes is generally poor. The aim of end of life care for these individuals is to maintain comfort, while minimising the risks of osmotic symptoms. The wishes of patients, carers and families should be taken into consideration when agreeing new glucose control targets, adjusting treatment or changing focus on diet. Patients and carers should feel that the condition is being managed with the support of healthcare professionals. These professionals need the knowledge, skills and confidence to recognise the end of life to tailor diabetes care appropriately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Care of people who are dying is an emotive topic, and there is only one chance to get it right for each individual approaching death. Failure to do so can hinder and complicate the grieving process of those left behind. Embedding core nursing values is integral to improving the quality of care given to all patients and those close to them. The Leadership Alliance for the Care of Dying People examined criticism of the Liverpool Care Pathway and formulated a new proposal, introducing five priorities for end of life care. Organisations, teams and individuals should consider how they can use these priorities to achieve high quality end of life care for all, at the time and in the way that each individual needs it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nurses caring for older patients across diverse settings will provide care for people with dementia approaching the end of their lives. Demographic changes mean that the number of people dying with dementia will increase, however nurses and other healthcare professionals may be unprepared to meet their needs. Factors that are essential to provide compassionate and dignified end of life care for people with dementia include effective communication with those with cognitive impairment and an awareness of likely causes of anxiety, fear and resistance to care when carrying out interventions. Accurate assessment and pain relief are required to ensure good end of life care. Knowledge of challenging and complex issues around maintenance of nutrition and hydration requirements, and communication skills to discuss the issues with families and carers are also required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While nursing handovers are predominantly used in ward settings, this essential form of communication is also used by community mental health teams to promote continuity of care. A community mental health nursing handover form was developed to overcome poor communication of patient information. It is expected that the form will increase efficiency and reduce handover time by focusing on pertinent and current patient information. Implementation of a community mental health nursing handover form requires the willingness of staff to be proactive and embrace change. The involvement of nurse leaders is essential to implement successful change, overcome barriers and motivate staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate healthcare professionals' perceptions of caring for people from ethnic minorities with poor or no English language skills when accessing health care. Method: Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 34 healthcare professionals to identify their perception of barriers encountered by those with poor or no English language skills. Findings: Five main themes were identified in relation to barriers in accessing health care: language; low literacy; lack of understanding; attitudes, gender attitudes and health beliefs; and retention of information. Conclusion: It is essential that all individuals are able to interact effectively with healthcare services. New and innovative approaches are necessary to meet the needs of people from ethnic minorities accessing health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the role of service improvement methodology in changing the quality of care delivered. It outlines the six-stage framework for quality improvement recommended by the NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement. The reader is encouraged to complete a series of activities to plan and deliver a service improvement project. Potential challenges to the successful delivery of a service improvement project are also considered. The article concludes with an example of the use of the six-stage framework to improve the quality of urinary catheter care in one acute NHS trust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In early November I met Jane Cummings at her London office to discuss the new strategy for nursing and midwifery. The chief nursing officer for England would, I suspect, object if I called it 'her' strategy; several times she points out it is not a top-down initiative. The strategy owes its existence -- not just its content -- to the nurses and midwives who have contributed ideas to it, a process that began back in May. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the communication needs of deaf patients who use British Sign Language as their first or preferred language. It would appear that these needs are not being met, particularly in acute hospital settings. Practical advice is provided for nurses to improve the quality of care that deaf patients receive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jennifer Trueland hears from nurses keen to defend the Liverpool Care Pathway against recent criticism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the sixth article in a nine-part series describing the Principles of Nursing Practice developed by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) in collaboration with patient and service user organisations, the Department of Health, the Nursing and Midwifery Council, nurses and other healthcare professionals. The article discusses Principle E, effective communication, and provides some examples of good practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Explores the contribution of nurses to health care in Great Britain. Patients' views of nurses; Nurses' ability to communicate with patients; Tender loving care provided by nurses; Continuity of care and emotional support provided by nurses.

The author discusses the continuing challenge of true acceptance of the great diversity within the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community in England as of February 2018. He cites the importance of considering all aspects of an individual, their family, and their community when providing holistic and person-centered care, and its delivery without prejudice on sexual identification. Also noted are typical issues that LGBT health providers and patients face.

The article offers information on several events including the Neonatal and pediatric ventilation course of the University College London (UCL) Institute of Child Health to be held on December 3-4, 2015 in London, England, the Interactive workshop on diagnostic interpretation skills for chest X-ray in Manchester, England on January 29, 2016, and the Conference on New Care Models in Manchester, England on December 9, 2015.

The article outlines the views by a panel of readers including Linda Drake, Liz Charalambous and Edwin Chamanga on whether the complaints system at the National Health Service (NHS) in Great Britian should be reformed. Drake emphasizes the need to support patients in raising concerns with the NHS. Charalambous stresses the need to overhaul the system so complaints are seen as an opportunity to improve care. Chamanga says that a reformed system would create a level of honesty within the NHS.

Nearly a quarter of NHS staff have been bullied by colleagues. A new toolkit aims to nip undermining behaviour in the bud, says Erin Dean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The author urges nursing practitioners in Great Britain to combat modern slavery. She explains that slavery in the modern sense involves forced and bonded labor, early and forced marriage, and all forms of people trafficking. She mentions the results of a study commissioned by the Department of Health which showed the contact between victims of modern slavery and healthcare staff. The need for nurses to document their contacts with victims and escalate them to authorities is mentioned.

The author urges for the enforcement of mandatory suicide intervention training in Great Britain to give nurses more confidence to support people at risk and help save lives. She points out the problem with people being scared of having conversations about suicide. She stresses the importance of recognizing and responding to suicidal crisis and suggests healthcare staff training on suicide intervention and of raising awareness of suicide and suicidal behavior in schools and the public.

The nurses at the best stroke unit in England know the secret to a successful service - teamwork, audit, training, commitment and protected staffing levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of recently qualified nurses is examined as part of a series in which RCN fellows look at the challenge of improving nursing care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the commitments made by the government to enhance end of life care in England in response to an independent review chaired by National Council for Palliative Care chief executive officer (CEO) Claire Henry. They include encouraging discussions between care professionals and dying individuals, allowing patients to make informed care choices, and providing personalised care plans. Also mentioned are training improvements, and community care pilot programs.

The author looks at the role of nurses in the proposed changes to congenital heart disease surgery by National Health Service (NHS) England. She mentions an infant cardiac surgery scandal involving the Bristol Royal Infirmary in the 1990s. She cites the key tests of reconfiguration such as strong patient and public engagement, clear clinical evidence base, and support for commissioners' proposals. She suggests putting consultation and communication at the centre of reconfiguration processes.

Statistics on cases of Parkinson's disease in Great Britain are presented, including the number of carers and patients whose data were gathered for the audit, the amount of money that a Parkinson's nurse can save by offering care in local settings, and the percentage of patients who accessed a Parkinson's nurse in 2015.

Ward staff are using an innovative scheme to improve communication with patients via informative placemats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first national audit of end of life care in hospitals since the withdrawal of the controversial Liverpool Care Pathway has found variation in the quality of care provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While researching the nurse-patient relationship for an assignment in my first year of training, I came across an article about the 6Cs, part of the chief nursing officer for England's Compassion in Practice strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This week the Nursing and Midwifery Council released new guidance on caring for older people. Erin Dean reports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although around two thirds of hospital patients are aged 65 and over, services are not always geared to their particular needs. Now 40 projects are up and running around the country to improve situation. INSET: Bite-size education makes a difference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article shares the author's experiences of working through a placement at a hospice detailing her first day of work and serving a patient with tracheostomy, how she was able to start a conversation and communicate with the patient and her learnings about the hospice service.

Nurses and midwives need guidance about revalidation to be made more straightforward if the planned new system is to work smoothly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study reveals older south Asians avoid talking about dying with families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the UK's biggest NHS trusts will this week begin displaying nurses' names on boards above patients' beds in a bid to improve continuity of care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports that the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) of Great Britain is about to release a guidance that covers the use of patronizing language. It is stated that such guidance does not allow the use of terms of endearment by nurses in addressing their patients. Courtesy, respect, and communication are also tackled in the article.

The author describes her experience of realizing the significance of good communication after witnessing the death of her father on a hospital ward where she was trained as a student nurse in Great Britain. A few hours before his death, she was informed by a nurse that a doctor wished to speak to them and that time, she knew it was about requesting consent. She was able to deal with the situation confidently despite distress with the help of her nurse training.