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Aim: To describe activities and professional characteristics of nurses in expanded roles in acute care in Germany and achieve a greater understanding of the current situation of advanced practice nursing. Background: Advanced practice nursing plays an important role in meeting increased demands in healthcare and promoting high‐quality care. Introduction: In Germany, advanced practice nursing is still at an early stage with a lack of studies describing the scope of practice of nurses in expanded roles. Methods: We conducted a cross‐sectional‐study using a paper‐and‐pencil questionnaire. In a nationwide convenience sample, we surveyed nurses with an academic degree, who work in an acute care hospital and take over expanded roles in direct patient care. Reporting followed the STROBE checklist. Results: Of 108 eligible nurses, 84 (77%) completed the survey. The majority had a Master's degree (63.1%) and the average work experience was 18.2 years. Participants carried out activities in all the domains that were queried (direct clinical practice, guidance and coaching, consultation, leadership and research) with differences within and between domains. Foci were on direct clinical practice and coaching and guidance. Discussion: In Germany, qualifications are nearing the international standard of advanced practice nursing. Results suggest that participants partly undertake activities within the scope of registered nurses' practice that do not correspond fully to their formal qualifications. Conclusion and implications for nursing and/or health policy: In order to foster the role development of expanded practice nurses in Germany, political efforts are needed in terms of training (e.g. specific Master's programmes), funding of corresponding positions in practice and control mechanisms (e.g. professional registration). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persuasive gamified systems are effective tools for motivating behaviour change using various persuasive strategies. In line with the reinforcement theory, some persuasive gamified systems employ reward and punishment in their design to achieve the intended behavioural outcome. Research has argued both in favour and against using these strategies in behaviour change applications due to mixed results with respect to their effectiveness. However, there is a lack knowledge about how interventions using these strategies could motivate or demotivate behaviours. Therefore, this paper explores the mechanism through which Reward and Punishment motivate or demotivate behaviours with respect to their strengths and weaknesses. The results of large-scale exploratory studies (N = 1768) uncover important strengths and weaknesses that could facilitate or hinder the effectiveness of Reward and Punishment at motivating behaviour change. These include their ability to engage users and make behaviour fun, reinforce commitments to goals, and reveal some consequences of bad behaviour. We also compared the perceived effectiveness of reward and punishment quantitatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The paper seeks to report on research-evidence-based health policy formulation in Malawi based on interviews with policymakers and questionnaire administered to health researchers. Design/methodology/approach: Quantitative data for inferential statistical analysis was obtained through a questionnaire administered to researchers in the University of Malawi's College of Medicine and the Kamuzu College of Nursing. Interviews were conducted with four directors holding decision-making national health policy roles in the Ministry of Health and the National Assembly. The five national policymakers interviewed constituted five of the nine interviewees. The remaining four interviewed represented other government agencies and non-governmental organisations in the health sector. These constituted a piloted group of health policymakers in Malawi. Data from interviews shows illustrative comments typical of consistent perspectives among interviewees. Where they disagreed, divergent views have been presented. Findings: The survey has revealed that health researchers rarely interact with health policymakers. Policymakers rarely attend researchers' workshops, seminars and conferences. Researchers prefer to interact with policymakers through expert committees or technical working groups. However, the meetings are called by policymakers at their own will. In terms of health research designed for user relevance, survey respondents suggested that developing research products; formulating study objectives; analysing and interpreting research findings and; developing research designs and methods were their responsibility. However, policymakers felt that research evidence should appeal to specific priorities needed by health policymakers in policy formulation. Health researchers suggested that health research evidence should be communicated through syntheses of the research literature and reprints of articles published in scientific journals. However, policymakers were of the view that research products should not be bulky, should be presented in points form and should provide options for specific policy areas. Practical implications: University research groups and technical working groups provide an opportunity for interacting and enhancing the use of health research evidence. Originality/value: For the purposes of facilitating the use of research evidence into policy, the study provides a low-cost framework for linking research groups and technical working groups to inform health research utilisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Drawing on survey data (N = 7,826) collected in the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States, this paper examines whether sexual orientation is a differentiating factor in explaining relationship quality and maintenance. Previous research suggests that sexual orientation is not significant in determining relationship satisfaction; however, these analyses have used traditional variable driven approaches, which do not provide an holistic view of the relationship by considering the unique combination of characteristics. Method: In this study, latent profile analyses were used, which is a person-centered approach that allows for identification of different types of long-term relationships. Results: Data suggested that LGB individuals had marginally higher levels of relationship quality compared to their heterosexual counterparts, and sexual orientation was also associated with differing types of long-term relationships. Discussion: These findings are interrogated in more detail, in particular, how sexual orientation is associated with types of long-term relationships and how everyday practices are associated with relationship quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumer-directed care (CDC) is increasingly widespread among aged care service options in Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries. However, the evidence base regarding the programmatic and contextual factors that affect the outcome of CDC interventions is surprisingly small. This paper reports on a self-directed care approach for older Australians with complex care needs. A multimethods longitudinal comparative cohort study was employed comprising 4 survey tools and 56 semi-structured interviews. Participation rates were around 20%. A total of 185 (98 in the intervention and 87 in the control group) older people and carers were recruited at baseline. Eleven months later, 109 participants (59 in the intervention and 50 in the control group) completed the repeat measure. Attrition rates were around 40%. Data collection occurred between July 2010 and April 2012. The data suggest that intervention group participants were likely to be more satisfied with the way they were treated (P = 0.013), their care options (P = 0.014), the 'say' they had in their care (P < 0.001), the information they received regarding their care (P = 0.012), what they were achieving in life (P = 0.031), that the services changed their view on what could be achieved in life (P = 0.020) and with their standard of living (P = 0.008). The evaluation suggests that while only a very small segment of older people is interested in a voucher or cash option, a substantially larger group would like to have greater say over and more direct access to their care, without, however, assuming administrative and financial responsibilities. The paper concludes that a stepped capacity-building approach to CDC may improve the acceptability of CDC to older people and generate synergies that improve older people's care outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many researchers argue that students must be meaningfully engaged in the learning resources for effective learning to occur. However, current online learners still report a problematic lack of attractive and challenging learning resources that engage them in the learning process. This endemic problem is even more evident in online collaborative learning approaches whose resources lack of authentic interactivity, user empowerment, social identity and challenge, thus having a negative effect on learners' self-motivation and engagement. To overcome these and other limitations and deficiencies, in this paper, a new type of learning resource named Collaborative Complex Learning Resources ( CC-LR) is presented based on the virtualization of collaborative learning with the aim of leveraging knowledge elicited during live sessions. During the CC-LR execution, the collaborative sessions are animated so learners can observe how avatars discuss and collaborate, how discussion threads grow and how knowledge is been constructed, refined and consolidated. In addition, complex aspects of the learning process can be incorporated in the CC-LRs during their creation, such as cognitive assessment and emotional awareness. The system produced from this research is tested to evaluate the CC-LR enriched with complex information and analyze its effects in the discussion process. The research reported in this paper was undertaken within the Seventh Framework Programme ( FP7) European project called ' Adaptive Learning via Intuitive/ Interactive, Collaborative and Emotional systems'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims This study aimed to compare the findings of the quality of nursing doctoral education survey across seven countries and discuss the strategic directions for improving quality. Background No comparative evaluation of global quality of nursing doctoral education has been reported to date despite the rapid increase in the number of nursing doctoral programmes. Design A descriptive, cross-country, comparative design was employed. Methods Data were collected from 2007-2010 from nursing schools in seven countries: Australia, Japan, Korea, South Africa, Thailand, UK and USA. An online questionnaire was used to evaluate quality of nursing doctoral education except for Japan, where a paper version was used. Korea and South Africa used e-mails quality of nursing doctoral education was evaluated using four domains: Programme, Faculty (referring to academic staff), Resource and Evaluation. Descriptive statistics, correlational and ordinal logistic regression were employed. Results A total of 105 deans/schools, 414 faculty and 1149 students/graduates participated. The perceptions of faculty and students/graduates about the quality of nursing doctoral education across the seven countries were mostly favourable on all four domains. The faculty domain score had the largest estimated coefficient for relative importance. As the overall quality level of doctoral education rose from fair to good, the resource domain showed an increased effect. Conclusions Both faculty and students/graduates groups rated the overall quality of nursing doctoral education favourably. The faculty domain had the greatest importance for quality, followed by the programme domain. However, the importance of the resource domain gained significance as the overall quality of nursing doctoral education increased, indicating the needs for more attention to resources if the quality of nursing doctoral education is to improve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To investigate the extent to which emotional labour and emotional intelligence are associated with well-being and job-stress among a group of Australian community nurses. The moderating role of emotional intelligence was evaluated as a key factor in the rescue of healthcare workers from job-stress, thus increasing job retention. Background Although emotional labour has been broadly investigated in the literature, the contribution of emotional labour and emotional intelligence to the well-being and experience of job-stress in a community nursing setting requires further exploration. Design This study used a cross-sectional quantitative research design with data collected from Australian community nurses. Methods Australian community nurses ( n = 312) reported on their perceived emotional labour, emotional intelligence and their levels of well-being and job-stress using a paper and pencil survey in 2010. Results/Findings Results from structural equation modelling support the hypothesis that both emotional labour and emotional intelligence have significant effects on nurses' well-being and perceived job-stress. Emotional intelligence plays a moderating role in the experience of job-stress. Conclusion These findings provide additional evidence for the important effects that emotional labour and emotional intelligence can have on well-being and job-stress among community nurses. The potential benefits of emotional intelligence in the nurses' emotional work have been explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and objectives. The aim of the study was to review breastfeeding support provided by Public Health Nurses in Ireland. The objectives were to identify the availability of appropriate guiding policies, educational preparation, attitude of Public Health Nurses and the availability and use of other supportive services. Background. Breastfeeding rates in Ireland are among the lowest in Europe. The main source of formal support for breastfeeding mothers in the community in Ireland is from Public Health Nurses who can make referral to other non-statutory resources. The nature of this support is determined by policies guiding clinical practice and education that increases breastfeeding confidence and competence of all personnel. Consequently, an assessment of breastfeeding resources requires an analysis of all these variables. Design. A large quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted, involving Public Health Nurses and mothers. This paper represents the results from the perspective of Public Health Nurses. Method. Directors of Public Health Nursing ( n = 24) and Public Health Nurses ( n = 204) completed self-report questionnaires by mail and online. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences and reported using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results. Public Health Nurses are well educated to support breastfeeding and have a positive attitude and a high degree of self-assessed confidence and competence. A wide variety of non-statutory support exists for breastfeeding but is not always used to their full potential. Conclusion. Standardising educational requirements for Public Health Nurses in supporting breastfeeding is an area that requires attention. Ultimately, service delivery in relation to supporting breastfeeding mothers would benefit from being more timely and responsive. Relevance to clinical practice. Awareness of support resources is necessary for Public Health Nurses to make appropriate referrals for breastfeeding mothers. Furthermore, Directors of Public Health Nursing need to encourage the breastfeeding supportive role of Public Health Nurses and facilitate continuing professional development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

o'leary d.f. & ni mhaolrúnaigh s. (2012) Information-seeking behaviour of nurses: where is information sought and what processes are followed? Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(2), 379-390. Abstract Aim. This paper is a report of a study on how nurses inform their decision-making in the workplace. Background. Despite the growing availability of research evidence, nurses have been slow to adopt it into their daily decision-making. Method. The study was undertaken in Ireland between 2006 and 2007 using a sequential mixed methods approach. In phase 1, the views of a quota sample of 29 nurses were explored using semi-structured interviews incorporating vignettes. Phase 2 involved the design and dissemination of a survey to a disproportionate stratified random sample of 1356 nurses. The response rate was 29%. Findings. In decision-making, nurses accessed other people, especially nursing colleagues, the most frequently. Sources that provided prepackaged information such as guidelines were favoured over sources that provided access to original research. The process of information-seeking for routine and non-routine decisions was different. Nurses making routine decisions relied mostly on their experience and an assessment of the patient. In non-routine decision-making, participants experienced more uncertainty about their decisions. Accordingly, sources of information used were more varied and the information-seeking process more extensive. The study highlighted the complexities of establishing whether information used in decision-making is research based or not. Conclusion. Routine practices should be reviewed and updated regularly through organizational mandates, as nurses do not generally question them. Research information to inform non-routine decision-making must be easily available to nurses in their workplace, as information searches generally prioritize finding enough, rather than the best, information to make a decision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To better understand the knowledge, practice, importance, awareness, usefulness, and confidence of non‐Hispanic Black and English‐ and Spanish‐speaking Hispanic/Latino adults with diabetes. Design: A descriptive cross‐sectional survey study design was used and descriptive statistics was conducted. Sample: Non‐Hispanic Black and Hispanic/Latino adults with diabetes were recruited from three New York City public hospitals. Measurements: A one‐time survey was delivered via email, text message or over the phone. Results: Of the 96 participants, 47.9% were Hispanic/Latino and 52.1% were non‐Hispanic Black individuals; 43.8% of the surveys were completed in Spanish and 56.3% in English; 41.7% were female and 58.3% male; 77.1% preferred to complete the survey via the telephone, 14.6% through email, and 8.3% via text message. Chi‐square findings showed, 90.6% knew mask wearing prevented COVID‐19; 96.9% knew that covering the nose and mouth during mask wearing is needed, 93.8% wore a mask, and 92.8% felt it important or very important to wear a mask to prevent the spread of COVID‐19. For social distancing, 88.5% knew it prevented the spread of COVID‐19, 93.8% practiced it, and 95.8% felt it important or very important. Conclusion: In having a better understanding of the knowledge and practices of COVID‐19 among non‐Hispanic Black and Hispanic populations with diabetes, the development of culturally and linguistically tailored community‐based mitigation strategies can be developed that are aimed at improving the preparedness of these groups for the next emerging infectious disease, such as COVID‐19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The high levels of unmet needs in relation to provision of self-care information reported by women living with breast cancer suggests that pre-chemotherapy education is suboptimal. Chatbots are emerging as a promising platform to provide education to patients helping them self-manage their symptoms at home. However, evidence from empirical studies on the effect of chatbots education on women living with breast cancer self-care behaviors and symptoms management are scarce. Methods: This three-arm randomized controlled trial was performed in a chemotherapy day care center within an oncology center in Egypt. A total of 150 women living with breast cancer were randomly selected and randomized into three groups: the ChemoFreeBot group (n = 50), the nurse-led education group (n = 50), and the routine care group (n = 50). In the ChemoFreeBot group, women were given a link to interact with ChemoFreeBot and ask questions about their symptoms and self-care interventions by typing questions or keywords at any time. On the same day as their first day of chemotherapy, the nurse-led education group received face to face teaching sessions from the researcher (nurse) about side effects and self-care interventions. The routine care group received general knowledge during their chemotherapy session about self-care interventions. The self-care behaviors effectiveness and the frequency, severity and distress of chemotherapy side effects were measured at baseline and postintervention for the three groups. The ChemoFreeBot's usability was assessed. Results: The mixed design repeated measures ANOVA analyses revealed a statistically significant both group effect and interaction effect of group*time, indicating a significant difference between the three groups in terms of the physical symptoms frequency (F = 76.075, p <.001, F = 147, p <.001, respectively), severity (F = 96.440, p <.001, F = 220.462, p <.001), and distress (F = 77.171, p <.001, F = 189.680, p <.001); the psychological symptoms frequency (F = 63.198, p <.001, F = 137.908, p <.001), severity (F = 62.137, p <.001), (F = 136.740, p <.001), and distress (F = 43.003, p <.001, F = 168.057, p <.001), and the effectiveness of self-care behaviors (F = 20.134, p <.001, F = 24.252, p <.001, respectively). The Post hoc analysis with Bonferroni adjustment in showed that women in the ChemoFreeBot group experienced a statistically significant less frequent, less severe and less distressing physical and psychological symptoms and higher effective self-care behaviors than those in the nurse-led education and routine care groups (p >.001). Conclusion: ChemoFreeBot was a useful and cost-effective tool to improve increase self-care behavior and reduce chemotherapy side effects in women living with breast cancer through the provision of personalized education and the improvement of the accessibility to real-time and high-quality information compared to "one size fits all" approach used by nurses to provide the information. ChemoFreeBot can be an empowering tool to assist nurses to educate women with breast cancer and allow women to take an active role in managing their symptom. Trial registration: This study was retrospectively registered in the University hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Center, Clinical Trials Registry on 26/09/2022; Registration No:R000055389,Trial ID:UMIN000048955. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and objectives: This study examines the relationship between social status and postpartum depression by migrant generation and determines whether social support moderates the relationship between migrant generations and postpartum depression. Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) afflicts more than 1 in 10 childbearing women worldwide; and this mental health problem may be higher among vulnerable populations of women such as migrants, an increasingly prevalent group in many countries. Social support and migrant generation (1st generation—mother and her parents born outside the host country; 2nd generation—mother born in the host country but not her parents; 2.5 generation—mother and one parent born in the host country) may contribute to the conflicting findings on migrant mothers and postpartum depression. Design: This study used a cross‐sectional design. Methods: Sample recruitment of migrant and non‐migrant first‐time mothers (n=515) was implemented through an online platform. A STROBE checklist guided the reporting of this study. Results: PPD was lower among mothers with social support. While social support was negatively associated with PPD for all mothers, PPD was not associated with migrant generation nor was a moderation effect found. Conclusions: Social support is negatively associated with PPD for all mothers, but levels of PPD for migrant mothers may be linked to country‐specific healthcare resources and immigration policies. Immigrant policies influence migrant mothers' healthcare access; thus, immigration policies may influence PPD among first‐time migrant mothers and the manner in which nurses can provide formal support. This study finds that social support, including the formal social support provided by nurses, decreases the likelihood of PPD. Demands on nurses' technical and assessment skills are high, but nurses also need to remember that their skills of providing social support are equally important, and for first‐time mothers, may contribute to decreasing PPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The aim of this study was to develop a predictive model that can identify the suicidal ideation risk group among older adults in rural areas using machine learning methods. Design: This study applied an exploratory, descriptive and cross‐sectional design. Methods: The participants were older adults (N = 650) aged over 65 living in rural areas of South Korea. Self‐report questionnaires were used to collect the demographics, suicidal ideation, depression, socioeconomic information and basic health information from September to October 2020. The collected data were analysed using machine learning methods with R statistical software 4.1.0. Results: The predictive models indicated that depression, pain, age and loneliness were significant factors of suicidal ideation. Good performance was observed based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve in the decision tree, random forest and logistic regression. Finally, the evaluation of model performance indicated moderate to high sensitivity and specificity. Conclusion: The predictive models using machine learning methods may be useful to predict the risk of suicidal ideation. Furthermore, depression with pain, age and feelings of loneliness should be included in the initial screening to assess suicide risk among older adults in rural areas. Impact Identifying suicidal risk among older adults is challenging. Thus, employing predictive models that can assess depression, pain, age and loneliness can enable public healthcare providers to detect suicidal risk groups. Particularly, the presented models from this study can facilitate healthcare providers with initiating early interventions to prevent suicide among older adults in clinical and community nursing care settings. Reporting Method: The reporting of this study (Observational, cross‐sectional study) conforms to the STROBE statement. Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or public contribution. This study did not involve patients, service users, caregivers or members of the public. Implication for the Profession and/or Patients Care: Applying this model may help to prevent geriatric suicide because the nursing staff will have a greater awareness regarding the suicide ideation risk of older adults, thereby reducing the possibility of their suicide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the structural and construct validity, and internal consistency of the Quality of Life Scale among Canadian women with histories of intimate partner violence. Methods: Consistent with COSMIN Guidelines, a secondary analysis was conducted using data from a community sample of 250 adult (over 18 years) Canadian women with histories of partner violence and who participated in Wave 5 of the longitudinal Women's Health Effects Study. Data were collected 4 years after baseline using structured interviews that included the Quality of Life Scale and two mental symptom scales (Center for Epidemiological Depression Scale and Davidson Trauma Scale) used to assess construct validity of the Quality of Life Scale. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis in MPLUS 8 with maximum likelihood estimation supported the hypothesized unidimensional structure of the 9-item Quality of Life Scale based on acceptable fit indices. Internal consistency, estimated using Cronbach's alpha and composite reliability, were.91 and.92, respectively, with item-total correlations ranging from.46 to.84. Inter-item correlation coefficients (range =.30–.79), suggesting that all items contribute to the total score. As hypothesized, the quality of life total score was negatively related to the total scores on both the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression (r = –.739) and Davidson Trauma Scale (r = –.537), providing evidence of construct validity of the Quality of Life Scale. Conclusion: The Quality of Life Scale is a brief, reliable, valid, unidimensional self-report measure appropriate for use with women who have experienced partner violence. By addressing an important measurement gap, results of this study have potential to advance research on women's quality of life in the context of partner violence, including improving the evaluation of a growing body of advocacy and health interventions designed to support women's healing and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Developing reliable tools to tap into all the behavioral dimensions of individual job performance and identifying the right sub-dimensions is necessary for both research and practice. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed at developing and validating an IJPQ that addresses shortcomings of existing questionnaires. METHODS: After a comprehensive systematic literature review, a framework consisting of four dimensions, including task performance (TP), contextual performance (CP), counterproductive work behavior (CWB), and adaptive performance (AP) was structured for measuring IJP. As well, 45 sub-dimensions were identified for measuring IJP's dimensions. Content and face validity were evaluated, and item impact score (IS), content validity index (CVI), Kappa, and content validity ratio (CVR) were calculated. For reliability and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), 525 workers completed the validated questionnaire and Cronbach alpha and goodness of fit indexes were determined, respectively. RESULTS: Of the 62 items generated to measure dimensions, 53 were approved. Based on item-level CVI, of the 53 items, only 45 items were accepted. Finally, the results of item level CVR led to the extraction of 27 questions to evaluate IJP. The obtained scale level CVI and scale level CVR were 0.91 and 0.68, respectively. Based on the results obtained from 525 Iranian workers, values of Cronbach's Alpha, X2/df, RMSEA, and P-value were in the acceptable range. CONCLUSIONS: Conclusively, a questionnaire containing 20 items was developed and validated for measuring IJP of Iranian worker's culture. The four dimensions of TP, CO, CWB, and AP consisted of 6, 5, 5, and 4 items each, respectively. Overall, IJPQ is a theory-based, reliable, and valid instrument for assessing job performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To explore perspectives of nurse managers about their preparation for transitioning into positions of leadership. Background: There have been serious concerns about the level of preparation as well as availability of support systems for transitioning of nurses into positions of authority. Methods: This was a quantitative study conducted in four Caribbean countries targeting nurses promoted to leadership positions within the last 5 years. Data were collected using a 30‐item questionnaire. Ethical approvals were received from the University of the West Indies and the participating countries. Results: Most participants were female, had 15 or more years' experience and an associate degree/diploma in nursing. They felt prepared through training and acting opportunities although many were not preceptored/mentored into the position. Preparation by training was positively correlated to acting opportunities, preceptorship programme and having a preceptor. Conclusion: Transitioning into positions of leadership requires readiness from a personal as well as an organisational perspective. There must be investment in the development opportunities to support nurses' transition into leadership positions. Implications for Nursing Management: Organisational continuity and effectiveness will be dependent on a balance between investing in experienced nursing personnel while encouraging personal development of less‐experienced nurses. Peer mentorship must be utilized to facilitate nurse transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study identifies and analyses the risk factors contributing to nursing turnover in Saudi Arabia and identifies practical solutions to decrease turnover and encourage nurses to stay in their jobs. Background: Saudi Arabia has a unique nursing profile, as the majority of the nursing workforce are expatriates. The Saudi health care system relies on contracted expatriate nurses to provide most of the direct patient health care. For nurses from other countries, Saudi Arabia can be a challenging place to work due to a range of factors including personal, policy and organisational variables. There is a high turnover of expatriate nurses, and this has been long‐standing problem for the Saudi Arabian health care system. Method: A cross‐sectional survey design among nurses in Saudi Arabia including 502 nurses, of whom 83.7% are female. Structural equation modelling is used to examine the relationships between the study variables. Confirmatory factor analysis is used to create and validate the measurement models for variables. Results: The analysis of the survey data identifies that Filipino nurses are more likely to intend to leave their current position than other expatriates, including Malaysian, Pakistani, Indian or local Saudi nurses. Many expatriates identify discrimination as an important contributing factor for their intention to leave, citing that the national salary remuneration for nurses should be based on competency and delivery of care. Furthermore, several independent variables are found to be significant predictors of anticipated turnover, including discrimination; social support from immediate supervisor; organisational commitment; and autonomy. Conclusions: This study provides the most comprehensive information available to date about the factors that influence nurses' desire to leave their current job and provides evidence for better health workforce planning in Saudi Arabia. This study strongly indicates that the main factor related to turnover is the unfair and unequal salaries paid to nurses of different nationalities in Saudi Arabia. Implications for Nursing Management: The findings relating to both Saudi and foreign nurse employment could be helpful to policymakers and the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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BACKGROUND: The number of older workers will expand during the next decades. Older workers have more long-term health problems and related limitations. OBJECTIVE: This study examined supportive actions provided in occupational healthcare services to older workers after vocational rehabilitation. An additional purpose was to explore occupational healthcare professionals' views on how to realize and improve adequate support activities. METHODS: Qualitative and quantitative methods were used, including a postal questionnaire and focus group discussions. Sixty-seven occupational healthcare service units participated in the postal questionnaire. Eight occupational healthcare professionals participated in two focus group discussions. The qualitative data was analyzed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: The qualitative analysis resulted in one theme (Act with respect), and four categories (Need for cooperation, Collaborative resources of involved stakeholders, Individual needs for support, and Gender as homogenous and separate groups). Quantitative results revealed that the workers' initiative strongly influenced the support carried out. Recommendations from the rehabilitation clinic were almost always considered when deciding on supportive actions. Focus group discussions brought up gender differences especially highlighted in the category Gender as homogenous and separate groups. CONCLUSIONS: Appropriate support of older workers requires cooperation between involved stakeholders, including occupational healthcare services. Provided support should be based on individual needs, but a mutual practice of determining needed support is requested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Missed nursing care is an error of omission defined as standard, required nursing care that is not completed or is seriously delayed. Study findings from around the world show that missed nursing care is a global concern. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare reports of missed nursing care by two types of nurses – registered nurses and practical nurses – in acute care hospitals in Iceland. Former studies in the USA indicate a variance in reports of missed nursing care by staff with different roles. Methods: This was a cross‐sectional descriptive study using the MISSCARE Survey‐Icelandic questionnaire for data collection. The questionnaire asks about the amount of missed nursing care on the unit for 24 nursing elements (Part A) and 17 reasons of care being missed (Part B). Participants were nursing staff from medical, surgical and intensive care units in all hospitals in Iceland. Findings: A t‐test for independent groups showed a significant difference for the overall missed nursing care score (Part A) between registered nurses (M = 2.09, SD = 0.51) and practical nurses (M = 1.82, SD = 0.59) [t(541) = 5.703, p < 0.001]. A comparison of the overall mean score for reasons of missed nursing care (Part B) between registered nurses (M = 2.32, SD = 0.38) and practical nurses (M = 2.21, SD = 0.62) indicated a significant difference in their reporting [t(299) = 2.210, p = 0.028]. In spite of the overall significant difference in ratings of the elements and reasons for missed nursing care by registered nurses and practical nurses, a pattern is evident in the ranking of the elements of nursing care being missed and reasons. Conclusions: The findings of this study point to the need to acknowledge certain aspects of missed nursing care and the different roles within nursing. They indicate a need to improve open, sincere and structured communication and mutual respect and trust within healthcare teams in Icelandic hospitals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: To examine the prevalence of missed care in the community nursing. Background: Previous studies have used a missed care framework to identify challenges routine nursing care in acute care environments. Several issues related to quality of care, safe staffing, job satisfaction and poor teamwork. However, this concept has not been examined in the community nursing context. Design: A cross‐sectional survey design was used to explore the concept of missed care in community nursing using demographical information, community nursing roles and reasons for missed care. Methods: Online questionnaires were completed by 458 community nurses in the Republic of Ireland to determine the prevalence of and reasons for missed care (31 July–25 September 2015). Results/Findings: With a response rate of 29%, findings were above 70% in several routine care responsibilities. Other findings point to a higher level of missed care in nurses who had less than five years’ experience and other variables such as age, those who worked additional unpaid hours and there were some regional variations. Conclusion: The results of the study indicate a high prevalence of missed care in the community nurses surveyed and that preventative care was the type of care most likely to be missed. This has serious implications for a nursing service that is preventative in nature and suggests that the missed care framework could benefit workforce planning for community nursing services both in Ireland and elsewhere. Accordingly, policy, practice and educational reforms are fundamental to meet current and future population needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background In Singapore, employees aged 62-65 can continue to be employed if they meet the re-employment eligibility criteria. This policy, coupled with an ageing workforce, calls for age-friendly initiatives, specific to work-related challenges faced by older nurses. Aim To determine work-related challenges faced by older nurses. Methods A mixed method sequential explanatory study was conducted with nurses, aged 50 and above, working in a healthcare cluster in Singapore. In the quantitative phase, a questionnaire was administered to 534 nurses to elicit work-related challenges, then in-depth interviews with 30 nurses were carried out to help explain why certain tasks and work circumstances became harder. Results Results of the survey indicated that the top three challenges were coping with changes, working with computers and reading labels. Place of work, salary range, gender and race were significantly associated with different work-related challenges. Five themes emerged from the qualitative data: physical demands of work and workload, new technology, need for further education, working with younger nurses and in intercultural teams, and changing public expectations and professional image. Discussion and conclusion The study supports the current literature on the challenges older nurses face with technological advancement. However, older nurses in our study reported less aches and pain as compared to that reported elsewhere. There is a need for specific strategies that will address changes in work processes and environment in order to retain older nurses. Implications for nursing and nursing policy When devising age-friendly work improvement initiatives, it is important for nurse leaders to factor in the needs of nurses working in different care environments, who are of different ranks, or are from different ethnic backgrounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Feminist scholarship highlights the key role the family plays in promoting or hindering gender equality. This article explores how young university students (N = 1,038) imagine their future regarding family arrangements in the Maule region (Chile). Quantitative and qualitative data suggest young people recognize and value diversity in family ideals, with significant gender differences. However, Chilean legislation and public social policy take the traditional family as the blueprint for state action, jeopardizing those projects that depart from the traditional one. Public policy and social work need to acknowledge the multiplicity of family ideals held by the younger generations to promote gender equality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Formerly incarcerated Latino men (FILM) have been significantly impacted by the HIV/AIDS and alcohol abuse epidemics in the United States. In this analysis, we examine the role of social, economic and cultural marginalization in the likelihood of alcohol-related sexual risk taking behavior among FILM. We recruited a non-random sample of FILM, ages 18-49 (n = 259). We performed logistic regression modeling to test four hypotheses examining the direct and moderating effects of socio-cultural factors. Drinking before sex was strongly associated with high likelihood of condomless intercourse (adjusted odds ratio, AOR = 2.93; 95% CI 1.74, 4.94). Low acculturation and social marginalization factors were significant moderators of the association between high-risk alcohol use and sexual risk behavior among FILM. Our data suggest that risk reduction initiatives geared towards reducing alcohol-related sexual risk taking among FILM should target FILM with low levels of acculturation, and those with high levels loneliness, anxiety, and/or depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internationally, there are few interventions that promote healthy lifestyles in the out-of-home care (OOHC) sector. The aim of this quantitative study was to measure the efficacy of the Healthy Eating, Active Living (HEAL) programme for young people who live in residential OOHC and their carers. Seventy young people and 177 carers were recruited between August 2012 and October 2014 from 48 residential care units across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria, Australia. The HEAL programme included educational sessions for young people, and professional development for carers to foster healthy eating and physical activity. Young people and carers completed questionnaires measuring behavioural, psychosocial and motivational outcomes. Objective measures of height and weight were collected for young people and self-reported by carers. The findings revealed no evidence for the efficacy of the HEAL intervention for either young people or carers. The most likely explanation for the null result was difficulties associated with: (1) collecting quantitative data for evaluative purposes in vulnerable populations (particularly the impact of attrition on statistical power); and (2) implementing interventions in complex environments. We conclude with a summary of lessons learnt and recommendations for future research in this unique setting. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Key Practitioner Messages There are a number of challenges inherent to collecting longitudinal data and/or employing a randomised trial design in this setting. Researchers working in this area need to acknowledge the critical need for this type of research but also consider alternative approaches to data collection., It is integral that organisational practices and/or policies are in place so that a HEAL philosophy is embedded in the residential OOHC culture; in other words, HEAL becomes a part of each organisation's values, goals and shared expectations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article assesses the feasibility of a family menu-planning workshop led by adults and peers. It discusses the use of questionnaires to measure menu-planning-related knowledge and self-efficacy. The results show feasibility of teaching menu-planning workshop to parents and adolescent children by adults and peers.

Aim To describe how nursing staff in a paediatric ward improved the conduct of clinical handover, using a practise development approach. Background ISBAR (Identify, Situation, Background, Assessment and Recommendation) is a mnemonic tool to aid the safe transfer of patient information in clinical handover. The nurses identified the need to improve the use of ISBAR, and other issues related to handover that could compromise patient safety and constrain family-centred care. Method Sixty-one percent of nurses on the ward contributed to issue identification and the design of the educational material, including a set of written and video resources and incorporating the role of a handover coach. Staff performance was evaluated before and after access to the resources using self-administered Likert scales, observation and a focus group. Results After the intervention, there was a stronger relationship between the participants' understanding of ISBAR and their application of it in handover. Further, there were statistically significant increases in improved handover practises, including family inclusion and safety checks. Implications for nursing management A practise development approach is useful in the provision of education to guide clinical performance in patient handover. Nurse managers can use this approach to empower their staff to make positive changes to practise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been growing interest in religion and spirituality within social work literature. However, little empirical research has explored Islamic welfare organisations and especially their significance for service users. This article presents findings from an evaluation of a British Islamic social work organisation (Ihsaan Social Support Association (ISSA) Wales), drawing on qualitative interviews with Muslim service users (n = 8) and quantitative findings from the service user database (n = 495), a quality-of-life assessment (n = 42) and a satisfaction survey (n = 36). In discussing the qualitative findings, religious authority, authenticity, culture, gender and the role of mosques are considered in analysing why the organisation's services were perceived as beneficial to their Muslim service users. Over three-quarters of those responding to a satisfaction survey reported that the help from the organisation had improved their well-being, but quantitative data from assessment and review showed no evidence of either improvement or deterioration in quality of life over time, with the exception of social life, where there was a significant improvement. Overall, in exploring the experiences of these service users, the findings highlight the diversity within the category of the 'Muslim service user' and the potential contribution that Islamic social welfare organisations may make in meeting the needs of British Muslims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The Revised Illness Perceptions Questionnaire (IPQ-R), widely used to assess illness perceptions, may fail to measure unique characteristics of different illnesses. This study modified and validated the IPQ-R for breast cancer survivors to provide detailed understanding of the specific illness perceptions held by these patients. Design: Initial modifications were made following qualitative interviews and were revised in a think-aloud study. The modified scale was tested in 753 breast cancer survivors prescribed tamoxifen. Modifications included adding a tamoxifen consequences scale and adapting the timeline scales to measure beliefs around risk of recurrence and cure. A confirmatory factor analysis was conducted on the modified questionnaire and an exploratory factor analysis on the causal beliefs scale. Test–retest reliability, internal consistency and construct validity were also examined. Results: The proposed eight-factor structure showed acceptable model fit, with high loadings and good reliability for all subscales. Correlations between subscales were consistent with theory and previous research. Conclusions: The IPQ-BCS is valid and reliable, and provides unique understanding of specific perceptions held by this population, including beliefs surrounding risk of recurrence and consequences of ongoing hormonal treatment. Identifying these perceptions will aid development of interventions targeting depression, fear of recurrence and medication non-adherence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends screening young children for behavioral and emotional problems (BEP) during primary care visits. Because of time constraints, few primary care providers (PCPs) use standardized screening tools to detect BEP. The Early Childhood Screening Assessment (ECSA) is a brief screening tool developed specifically to meet the needs of pediatric primary care providers (PCPs). The ECSA has established psychometric properties, but the feasibility and acceptability of the ECSA have not been established. This study examines the degree to which PCPs would incorporate ECSA screening and how PCPs value the ECSA as a tool to detect children with BEP. Twenty-seven pediatric PCPs were trained to implement ECSA screening. Six months after training, 96% of PCPs reported that the ECSA was practical for use at well-visits, 70% were still screening and 89% agreed that it helped detect more cases of BEP than by routine history-taking alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction:Global increases in life expectancy are expected to continue, with accompanying physical and mental well-being challenges specifically for older people living in residential care settings. Objective:The aim of the study was to investigate the association between mental well-being and social capital of older residents (60+ years) in an urban residential care facility in South Africa. Method:A descriptive survey was conducted with 103 residents living in a residential care facility in an urban environment in South Africa. The social capital framework from the Canadian Policy Research Initiative, the WHO-5 well-being index, the Kessler-6 measure of psychosocial distress, the OSLO-3 Social Support Scale and the Australian Bureau of Statistics Indigenous Health Questionnaire were used to develop the questionnaire. Results:The WHO-5 showed moderate ratings of mental well-being for the standard scoring (>13) (62, 82.7%), but lower levels when using ‘no negative ratings’ (36; 50.6%). Significant differences in the primary network size, average closeness, self-efficacy and social support as well as the ability to confide in primary network was shown between residents with mentally well and unwell ratings. Logistic regression showed that the strongest predictor for mental well-being was participation in activities outside of the residence and having a primary network. Conclusion:The study confirms the association between social capital and mental well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This article describes satisfaction that persons with mild cognitive impairment (PwMCI) and their caregivers had with the Daily Enhancement of Meaningful Activity (DEMA) intervention. Methods This randomized controlled pilot study compared satisfaction (usefulness, ease of use, and acceptability) with DEMA ( n = 17 dyads) to an information support (IS) control group ( n = 19 dyads). Six biweekly sessions (two in person and four by telephone) were delivered by trained nurses. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, independent-sample t tests, and content analysis. Findings PwMCI receiving DEMA rated their satisfaction significantly higher ( p = .033) than did the control group; there was no difference in satisfaction between caregivers across groups. Qualitative interview data supported the usefulness, ease of use, and acceptability of DEMA for both PwMCI and caregivers. Conclusions Results documented PwMCI's satisfaction with DEMA as implemented by nurses to support PwMCI-caregiver dyads' engagement in meaningful activity. DEMA may need revision to increase satisfaction for caregivers. Clinical Relevance The DEMA intervention was evaluated as useful, easy to use, and acceptable to PwMCI and their caregivers based on positive mean ratings. The study findings provide preliminary support of DEMA as a means to improve quality of life by helping to support patient and caregiver engagement in meaningful activities and problem solving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective We aimed to investigate eating disorder pathology in German elite adolescent athletes. Evidence suggests that eating disorder pathology is more common in adult elite sports, especially in female athletes and in sports emphasizing leanness. There is a scarcity of studies in elite adolescent athletes who are in a vulnerable developmental stage and are affected by general as well as sport-specific risk factors. Method Our data was derived from the German Young Olympic Athletes' Lifestyle and Health Management Study (GOAL) which conducted a survey in 1138 elite adolescent athletes. In this sample, we assessed body weight, weight control behavior, body acceptance and screened overall for core symptoms of eating disorders, depression and anxiety. We performed a tree analysis to identify high risk groups for eating disorder pathology. Results High risk groups comprised (a) athletes competing in weight dependent sports, and among athletes competing in disciplines other than weight dependent sports (b) athletes who are high on negative affectivity, (c) female athletes and (d) male athletes competing in endurance, technical or power sports. Athletes competing in weight dependent disciplines reported wide spread use of compensatory behaviors to influence body weight. Athletes reporting eating disorder pathology showed higher levels of depression and anxiety than athletes without eating disorder pathology. Discussion Increased psychosocial burden in athletes with eating disorder pathology suggests that eating disorder symptoms should not be accepted as an unproblematic and functional part of elite sports. The prevention and management of eating disorder pathology is especially important in weight dependent sports. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2016; 49:553-562) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While living donor kidney transplantation (LDKT) is the treatment of choice for end-stage renal disease patients (ESRD), the potential barriers to LDKT are not well understood, especially among African American patients who have higher rates of ESRD but lower LDKT than Whites. To address this gap, a cross-sectional survey (n=101) identified LDKT experiences and attitudes among urban African American adults receiving hemodialysis at two outpatient clinics in Philadelphia. Most patients (72.3%) were interested in LDKT but only 34.2% had asked someone for a donation. Concerns about the donor (33.3%), asking for a kidney (28.1%), and their own health (24.6%) were major barriers. Patients also expressed guilt (56.3%) and fear (37.2%). About half (49.5%) had an unsolicited offer, regardless of whether or not they asked. The survey results suggest that interventions should focus on overcoming reluctance to ask for a kidney donation or to accept unsolicited offers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Previous studies suggest that not only education but also personal aspects such as experience of working as a registered nurse ( RN) and age can influence competence. The objective was to explore the educational and self-rated competence of RNs and their duties within the care of older people. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive design was used. All RNs in two counties in Sweden were asked to complete a written questionnaire: a study specific questionnaire with educational and work related questions using the Nurse Competence Scale. The response rate was 61% (n 344). Results Higher self-rated satisfaction with own professional competence was related to older age, more years after nursing education and possessing at least one postgraduate education in specialist nursing. Educational needs were related to younger age and fewer years since nursing graduation. Education within elder care, including education about drugs was rated the most urgently needed area of education. The most frequently reported tasks were found in the domain helping role, whereas ensuring quality was less present in their daily work. Conclusions Educational level, age and years of experience had an impact on RNs' self-perceived competence, which is in accordance with previous descriptions of the concept competence. It seems imperative that RNs working in care of the old and with the demands placed on them are given the opportunity to take a postgraduate specialist education in order to gain a competence level in their desired area of work. It is also important that RNs working in care of the old get tailored education in line with the requirements the organisation places on them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine if domains included in popular measurement systems (e.g. the Peds QL™) reflect the adolescent survivor of a brain injury's sense of QoL and explore this relationship in reference to an emerging model of wellbeing in the adolescent with TBI. Methods: Mixed methods; adolescent QoL assessed using the PedsQL™ self-report and a semi-structured interview created by the lead author. Adolescent self-report was compared to adolescent narratives. Results: Ten adolescents participated. Adolescent PedsQL™ total was within normal limits. Adolescents reported that changes identified by the PedsQL were not important and did not impact on their sense of QoL. The importance on social components of QoL-as opposed to cognitive-provide additional support of the emerging model of wellbeing in adolescents with TBI. Conclusions: The PedsQL can identify changes post-TBI, but fails to consider whether these changes are relevant to the adolescent. Alternate methods of exploring QoL-which emphasize the interaction of social networks and friendships, should be considered to avoid an oblique view of QoL outcomes after TBI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To compare sole nurse and doctor-led multidisciplinary team delivery of community clozapine services for people with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Background Around 20% of people with schizophrenia are treatment resistant and fail to respond to front line medications. Clozapine, a second-line treatment, has potentially serious side effects requiring regular monitoring. Different models of community clozapine services are emerging in the British National Health Service, but there is little evidence about which is best. Design Questionnaire survey of service users. Methods All patients on the lists of seven clozapine clinics (four sole nurse, three multidisciplinary team) in one trust were invited to participate, 2009-2010. Forward stepwise regression was used to investigate associations between patient well-being, functioning, self-efficacy and satisfaction, and clinic model attended, controlling for socio-demographic and health characteristics and processes of care. Use (and costs) of other health and social services accessed was compared between models. Results Sixty-six service users (35% participation rate) responded. Well-being and functioning were associated with patient characteristics and processes of care, not clinic model. Patients managed by sole nurses reported, over 3 months: more community psychiatric nurse visits and hospital psychiatrist appointments. Clinic list size affects costs per patient. Conclusions Multidisciplinary team delivery may reduce use of other services. Although multidisciplinary team delivery is regarded as best practice, sole nurses can effectively provide clozapine services and may be warranted in areas of low population density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Previous studies internationally have highlighted that working with people living with HIV/ AIDS may lead to nurses' stress and burnout. However, this topic has not been well explored in Russia, a country with an exponential growth in HIV/ AIDS. Aim This study focused on nurses' job satisfaction and their attitudes towards people living with HIV/ AIDS in centres where nurses regularly treat such patients, and in a general hospital where nurses rarely treat such patients. Method We distributed three self-report questionnaires: demographics, job satisfaction and attitudes towards people living with HIV/ AIDS to nurses working in six HIV/ AIDS centres and the largest general hospital in Ekaterinburg, Russia. Sixty-nine nurses from the HIV/ AIDS centres and 66 from the general hospital (about 90% of those approached) completed these. Results Nurses who regularly treated people with HIV/ AIDS were significantly younger and a greater number held master degrees than those who rarely treated such patients. No significant differences between the two settings emerged for job satisfaction but what did emerge were differences in nurses' attitudes: nurses in HIV/ AIDS centres reported less avoidance than nurses in the general hospital. Regarding empathetic attitudes, no significant differences emerged, but empathetic attitudes contributed to the explained variance of job satisfaction. Conclusion Although our sample was small, the associations found between avoidant attitudes and job satisfaction highlight the need for stigma-reduction strategies and increased disease knowledge. Healthcare managers should consider attitudes towards people living with HIV/ AIDS as an important factor in ensuring adequate care for them and initiate education programmes for nurses, especially programmes dealing with HIV/ AIDS in general hospitals. Implications for nursing and health policy Support and supervision can be used as a strategy, for empowering nurses to meet the challenges of working with HIV/ AIDS patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim This study is a report of the development and testing of the Work Stressor Inventory for Nurses in Oncology. Background Stressors in oncology nursing are generally assessed using generic stress scales like the Nursing Stress Scale or the Health Professions Stress Inventory. However, qualitative investigations have highlighted the specific nature of the stress to which nurses are exposed. Design The Work Stressor Inventory for Nurses in Oncology was developed using both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Method For the item generation phase, a semi-structured interview was conducted with 59 nurses working in oncology units during 2007. A total of 51 work-related items were retained for the final survey. A convenience sample of 582 nurses working in oncology completed the survey between January 2008-June 2008. They also completed the General Health Questionnaire and the Maslach Burnout Inventory. The Work Stressor Inventory for Nurses in Oncology was further tested for theoretically supported constructs, internal consistency reliability and concurrent validity. Findings The exploratory results revealed five factors: workload, dealing with death and dying, dealing with suffering, interpersonal conflicts, dealing with patients and relatives. The internal consistency of the five subscales was satisfactory. Correlation patterns between the Work Stressor Inventory for Nurses in Oncology dimensions and both mental health and burnout variables support the criterion-related validity of the scale. Conclusion Future quantitative or qualitative studies using this scale could add knowledge about the experiences of emotional and organizational stressors related to this area of nursing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate which activities from the 'Spiritual Support' intervention of the Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC) are used in patients with the nursing diagnosis 'Death Anxiety' in the Czech Republic, and which activities could feasibly be implemented into practice. Method: The study surveyed 468 Czech nurses using a quantitative questionnaire with Likert scales. Results: The most frequently used activity was 'Treat individual with dignity and respect' and the least frequently used was 'Pray with the individual'. 'Treat individual with dignity and respect' was also thought to be the most feasible activity for Czech nursing practice. Significant differences were found between nurses working in hospices and those in other sites and between religious believers and non-believers. Conclusion: Even in the secularised Czech Republic, nurses can make use of the NIC Spiritual Support intervention in end-of-life care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and objectives To describe individual experiences of patients using the bedpan in an acute care setting. Background Patients describe the use of the bedpan often as uncomfortable and painful, and nurses mention difficulties using standard-sized bedpans for obese patients or removing a bedpan without soiling the bed. Although the bedpan is still regularly used in hospitals, there are few empirical studies that confirm these experiences. Design A descriptive quantitative research design. Methods A convenience sample of 78 patients was recruited, and data were collected using a standardised questionnaire ( German version of the Bedpan Ongemak Schaal). Descriptive statistics were used to analyse frequency (scale A) and extent of inconvenient experiences (scale B). Internal consistency of the scales was tested using Cronbach's alpha. Results A major finding of the study was that most patients felt dependent on other persons and no autonomous movement was possible on the bedpan. Patients were frequently confronted with pain, inconvenient characteristics of the bedpan (e.g. coldness, hardness), uncomfortable positions and hygiene inconveniences (e.g. wet backside, fear that urination may miss the bedpan). Conclusion As the bedpan is still regularly used in acute care hospitals, innovations in bedpan models are necessary to address the problems. But there are also several courses of action nurses should consider when caring for patients who are dependent on the bedpan. Relevance for clinical practice The discomfort of the bedpan, the feeling of dependency and embarrassment could lead to undesirable patient reactions, such as avoidance of fluid intake or leaving the bed. If nurses know the reasons for this behaviour, they could meet these problems with empathetic understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

rutledge d.n., martinez a., traska t.k. & rose d.j. (2012) Fall experiences of persons with fibromyalgia over 6 months. Journal of Advanced Nursing 69(2), 435-448. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2648.2012.06026.x Abstract Aims. To describe circumstances and consequences of falls occurring among persons with fibromyalgia who had recent falls. Background. Fibromyalgia is a common widespread pain condition that has been linked to increased fall-risk. No published research described experiences of falling in persons with fibromyalgia. Prior to development of fall-risk reduction interventions, it is essential to understand the context of falls and fall experiences in persons with fibromyalgia. Design. Descriptive longitudinal study. Methods. The study took place during 2009; data were collected via fall diaries and interviews in 18 US women ages 21-69 years. Results. Over 6 months, 17 of 18 participants fell or had a near-fall. For the 15 women with 6-month fall-prevalence data, median number of falls was 2, with 3 near-falls. Most fall experiences contained intrinsic and extrinsic contributory factors. Participants reported engaging in various activities prior to falls/near-falls. A substantial minority (32-48%) experienced severe symptoms (pain, fatigue, stiffness) at the time. Most falls/near-falls occurred in homes during the day; one resulted in injury. Themes that were identified included the following: always being careful or generally cautious; fear of losing control of one's body, especially related to balance; desire to continue activities counterbalanced with frustration at not being able to because of fear of falling; perception of having become clumsy. Conclusions. Nurses caring for persons with fibromyalgia should assess for potential fall-risk factors and offer plans for individualized fall-prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To explore emergency department clinicians' perceived resource barriers to facilitating organ and tissue donation (OTD). Methods. A cross-sectional national online survey of Australian emergency department (ED) clinicians. Results. ED clinicians reported a range of resource barriers that hinder the facilitation of OTD, most notably a lack of time to discuss OTD with a patient's family (74.6%). Those reporting more resource barriers had been less involved in OTD-related tasks. For example, those reporting a lack of time to assess a patient's suitability to be a potential donor had less experience with OTD-related tasks in the last calendar year than did those who reported that they often or always have enough time for this (P < 0.01). In addition, ED clinicians working in DonateLife network hospitals were more involved in OTD-related tasks (P < 0.01) and reported fewer resource shortages in the ED and the hospital overall. Conclusions. Resource shortages hinder the facilitation of OTD in the ED and are related to decreased involvement in OTD-related tasks. In addition, ED clinicians working in DonateLife hospitals are more involved in OTD-related tasks and report fewer resource shortages overall. Addressing resource shortages and extending the DonateLife network could benefit OTD rates initiated from the ED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The changes during adolescence can affect adherence to diabetes treatment and the quality of life of adolescents with type 1 diabetes. The aims of this study were to evaluate the behaviours and lifestyles, psychological adaptation and social support of adolescents with type 1 diabetes, and to compare the results with those of 'The Health of Portuguese Adolescents' study. Study participants comprised 91 adolescents with type 1 diabetes, aged between 11 and 16 years, who were receiving diabetes monitoring consultations at the Portuguese Diabetes Association. Data were collected via a questionnaire consisting of 57 questions which were answered by the adolescents. This study used quantitative research methods with descriptive analysis, and comparative, correlational and inferential statistics. The results showed that adolescents with diabetes have healthier eating habits and a more positive attitude towards their satisfaction with life, but their health perception is less positive than that of other adolescents. Body weight, height, and physical and leisure activities are similar in all of the adolescents. Youngsters show satisfactory adherence to insulin therapy, eating habits, physical exercise and glucose monitoring (59-92%). However, they present a high level of HbA1c (mean 9.9% [85mmol/mol]). The highest levels of HbA1c have been related to poor health perception ( p<0.01) and less frequent blood glucose monitoring ( p< 0.05). The best representations and the best psychological adaptation to diabetes are positively correlated to regular physical exercise ( p<0.05). Study participants reported that they have good social support from family, teachers, friends and their health care team (64-95%) and refer to the benefits of group sessions and summer camps with other youngsters with type 1 diabetes. It was concluded that metabolic control in adolescents with type 1 diabetes is unsatisfactory, in spite of good adherence to diabetes treatment and a healthy lifestyle.Copyright © 2012 FEND. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Institution where the research was done: Portuguese Diabetes Association [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scand J Caring Sci; 2010; 24; 638-647 Intimate partner violence (IPV) is seen as a serious health risk factor for women with significant acute and long-term health consequences and it affects women from all ethnic and socioeconomic groups. Knowledge of these consequences of IPV may help emergency department (ED) professionals to identify these women and provide them with appropriate care, including information on a variety of community services, and refer those women to such services if necessary. The study aimed to describe the frequency of ED visits by women exposed to physical intimate partner violence as estimated by ED professionals (nurses, practical nurses, emergency medical technicians) and identification of acute IPV. In this study 'partner' is defined as a woman's husband, former husband, current or former cohabitant or partner. This design was used as part of a larger, descriptive, cross-sectional multi-centre and multi-method study. Data were collected from 28 EDs in 13 Finnish hospital districts. Altogether 488 questionnaires were returned, which yielded a response rate of 51%. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and quantitative content analysis. Findings showed that 48% (n = 231) of the ED professionals reported that they encountered women in IPV relationships at least once a month. Over one-fifth of the ED professionals reported having repeatedly encountered the same women visiting the ED for IPV related injuries. Over half of the participants reported having problems 'often' or 'now and then' when identifying women exposed to IPV. Those with training on IPV estimated that they had identified women exposed to IPV more often. To conclude, the research suggests that improvement of identification of acute IPV requires that training be arranged and jointly agreed written procedures for handling IPV be introduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]