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This article provides an overview of the wound healing process, outlining the four distinct phases of the healing cascade: haemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and maturation. The different types of closure method are described and, specifically, the various types of surgical suture that can be used for wound closure, as well as the strengths and limitations of each. The article explains aspects of patient care that need to be considered such as obtaining informed consent, and the importance of nurses maintaining appropriate clinical skills. It concludes with a step-by-step outline of best practice on how to remove sutures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urinary catheterisation is a crucial procedure in healthcare, requiring a thorough understanding of the anatomical and physiological differences between males and females to ensure safe and effective care. This guide explores the anatomy of the urinary system, detailing the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, and highlights key differences in catheterisation techniques for men and women. Emphasising evidence-based practices, it discusses recent advancements, such as antimicrobial catheters, and underscores the importance of comprehensive training and competency assessments for healthcare providers. Additionally, the guide advocates for patient-centred approaches, multidisciplinary collaboration, and adherence to updated policies to reduce complications such as catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). By integrating these critical evaluations and best practices, health professionals can enhance patient outcomes and maintain high standards of care in urinary catheterisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports on a study that evaluated an innovative 6-week summer returners' programme, part of the Health Education England RePAIR project, designed to support nursing students who have interrupted their studies. Held from May to July 2022, the programme addressed diverse needs through academic guidance, mental health and resilience workshops, creative arts, professional identity development, and practical nursing skills training. The programme ran alongside support from the programme team, student engagement services, and ongoing communication via phone and email. Despite non-mandatory sessions leading to varying attendance, the combined efforts facilitated the return of 67 out of 135 interrupted students. Thematic analysis identified four key themes: anticipation and fear, making contact and reaching out, preparing for return, and psychological wellbeing. The programme's effectiveness underscores the necessity of tailored support strategies to enhance retention and wellbeing. This innovative approach highlights the importance of personalised support in aiding nursing students' return to education and addressing nursing workforce shortages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technological advancements in endoscopy have significantly transformed the landscape of gastrointestinal (GI) nursing. This article explores the latest innovations in endoscopic techniques, such as high-resolution imaging, endoscopic ultrasound and therapeutic procedures. It examines the implications of these advancements for GI nursing practice, focusing on the roles and responsibilities of nurses in pre-procedural, intra-procedural and post-procedural care. The importance of continuous education and specialised training for GI nurses is also discussed. Recommendations are provided to enhance nursing practices in endoscopy settings, ensuring optimal patient care and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infection prevention and control (IPC) is essential in nursing practice to safeguard patient health and reduce healthcare-associated infections. This article explores IPC strategies, including hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment, environmental cleaning, safe injection practices, and antimicrobial stewardship. It discusses the implementation challenges and solutions, such as ensuring compliance through education, monitoring and strong leadership. IPC measures are crucial in preventing infections such as catheter-associated urinary tract infections, central line-associated bloodstream infections, surgical site infections, and ventilator-associated pneumonia. By integrating personalised IPC strategies into nursing practice, healthcare providers can significantly improve infection control outcomes and enhance overall patient safety and quality of care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Management of hard-to-heal wounds remains a significant challenge for healthcare systems, with substantial economic burdens. Maggot debridement therapy, using sterile larvae of Lucilia sericata, effectively debrides necrotic tissue and promotes healing, yet its use is limited. This narrative review examines the influences on the use of this form of debridement by registered nurses, focusing on knowledge and attitudes, treatment-related pain, and practical issues. Findings indicate that wound specialist nurses are more knowledgeable and supportive of maggot debridement therapy compared with non-wound specialists, underscoring the need for targeted educational interventions. Pain management is critical, with mixed reports on pain levels, highlighting the necessity for tailored pain-relief strategies. Practical challenges include procurement difficulties and cost, suggesting a need for streamlined processes and clear clinical guidelines. Addressing these barriers through education, research, and improved logistics could enhance the acceptance and use of maggot debridement therapy, improving patient outcomes in wound management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nursing students often face anxiety and cognitive overload, leading to high attrition rates; meanwhile, traditional pastoral interventions have proved insufficient. A novel, digitally enhanced learning environment named The Wellbeing in Student Education (WISE) Room, was introduced as an alternative at a UK university. Aims: This study investigated the impact of The WISE Room, a 4m × 4m digital platform containing touch-interactive walls, co-created with students and academic staff, designed to promote insight through immersive experiences beyond traditional learning settings. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was adopted, collecting data from nursing students, healthcare staff and academic faculty. Data were collected at three stages, each corresponding with the iterative development of The WISE Room, including an evaluation of the intervention. Results: Feedback from 240 participants was positive. In Phase 2 of the study, 93% of the 79 students and 21 staff who visited the room and completed a survey were satisfied with the room's suitability in three key areas: emotional wellbeing, academic readiness, and placement preparedness. Conclusion: The WISE Room has proved effective in supporting nursing students' wellbeing, and educational and placement preparation requirements. Its multisensory, digital and experiential nature is beneficial for students throughout their learner journey. Additional trials and content development will be required to enhance the learning and teaching experience further. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the role of nurses in the prevention and management of diabetes, a growing global health concern. Topics discussed include advancements in diabetes care technology, the importance of patient education and empowerment, and the need for holistic, person-centered care to improve patient outcomes.

Diabetic foot ulceration affects up to 34% of the global diabetic population as a result of poor glycaemic control. Complications resulting from diabetic foot ulceration can be complex, expensive and challenging. It is important for risk factors to be recognised early and for regular assessment to take place. Streamlining a coordinated approach that enhances communication and guides treatment approaches can help to improve wound outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this article is to identify characteristics of Black barbershop clients and barbers in an urban Midwestern city participating in a health promotion program called Affecting Cancer Together (ACT) that are associated with client knowledge about prostate cancer. Statistical analyses examined client and barber characteristics for their potential association with client prostate cancer knowledge, while controlling for ACT variables. Study findings suggested clients who are married (ß = 0.99; confidence interval [CI] = 0.38, 1.59; p < 0.01) and have higher levels of education (ß = 0.34; CI = 0.01, 0.67; p = 0.04) may be more likely to know more about prostate cancer. Barbers with at least "some college" education may be more effective in increasing client knowledge (ß = 0.85; CI = 0.05, 1.64; p = 0.04). Trained peer-helper programs may consider prioritizing limited educational resources for barbers with at least some college education and incorporating the social support of spouses for making informed decisions. Considering the potential of barbershop programs to reach Black men about a serious racially disproportionate health issue, ameliorating adoption, implementation, effectiveness, and sustainment are an important public health priority for underserved populations.