Journal of advanced nursing
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This paper reports a study of patients' current practice with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusions, particularly with respect to the management of the pump. ⋯ Patients having long-term continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion should be carefully audited with respect to the management of the insulin pump and its accessories. In patients who frequently experience problems, shorter intervals between changes of infusion sets are strongly advocated and type of insulin preparation may be of importance in some cases.
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This paper reports a study exploring willingness to use home care nursing services among older people and discussing the implications for long-term and home care nursing policies. ⋯ Co-payment guidelines for minimizing unmet needs are required, especially for older people with low incomes. A positive evaluation from those who knew about or had used such services is expected to contribute to the use of home care nursing services by older people.
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This paper reports a study to compare the quality of life and its correlates for patients undergoing various types of renal replacement therapy. ⋯ Information about the quality of life of patients having various types of renal replacement therapy will assist physicians, nurses, patients and their families to make decisions on treatment selection. There is a need to establish support groups for patients having renal replacement therapy in order to enhance their quality of life, especially in the psychological domain.
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The purpose of this article is to report a study of the perceptions and experiences of nurses caring for people living with HIV/AIDS in the public health sector in South Africa. ⋯ Increased understanding of the stresses and rewards experienced by these nurses can contribute to policy development in this area. It is also important to provide appropriate preregistration and continuing education and support for nurses working in this field, and to ensure that the working environment is adequate in terms of resources.
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This paper reports a study to determine changes in the physical fitness (knee and ankle muscle strength, balance, flexibility, and mobility), fall avoidance efficacy, and fall episodes of institutionalized older adults after participating in a 12-week Sun-style Tai Chi exercise programme. ⋯ The findings reveal that Tai Chi exercise programmes can safely improve physical strength and reduce fall risk for fall-prone older adults in residential care facilities.