Search

One group of nurses not frequently studied but who have felt the burden of shortages of registered nurses (RNs) is that of nephrology nurses. Nurses' valuable insights must be solicited for the accurate assessment of current work environment issues and for their specific solutions. The purposes of this study were to explore nurse satisfaction and dissatisfaction with the work environment in outpatient hemodialysis facilities, to solicit nurses' insights on potential solutions, and to develop national strategies for improvement. Focus group qualitative methodology was utilized with focus groups and individual interviews, including a total of 101 RN participants from 45 outpatient hemodialysis facilities. The overall category of this study was Striving to be Heard and Recognized, with the following four supportive categories: Maintaining Competency, Resolving Staffing and Resources, Strengthening Organizational Leadership, and Rebuilding Relationships. Nephrology nurse participants have identified strategies within each category for the improvement of their work environment. The voices of nephrology nurses must be heard and acted upon in a timely manner to improve workplace environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Racial bias, stigma, stereotyping, and health disparities are pervasive in health care across America. The purposes of this research study were to assess if there was a significant difference in cultural knowledge and awareness in college health science students before and after receiving education about Native Americans receiving hemodialysis. Pre- and post-surveys were administered to assess cultural attitudes, beliefs, and knowledge. The intervention included a one-hour presentation on the findings of a research study. The qualitative component included students' writing a critical reflection paper related to a case study of a young Native American with chronic kidney disease. There was a statistically significant difference in the pre- and post-test, suggesting that students can learn cultural awareness from Native Americans receiving dialysis and can apply culturally aware interventions following an education session based on clinical research. The themes of this study were a) approaching the patient with an open mind; b) developing trust; c) assessing beliefs, culture, and knowledge; d) educating and re-educating with patient and family; e) convincing the patient to have dialysis; and f) creating a sacred space. Nephrology nurses can partner with local colleges to present findings from research and help facilitate culturally relevant care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents an answer/evaluation form to determine workplace setting satisfaction of nephrology nurses in hemodialysis work and its influence on their retention.