Journal of clinical nursing
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To describe the development of an integrated career and competency framework for diabetes nursing. ⋯ The description of the process of developing of the integrated career and competency framework should help other groups going through the same process. Relevance to clinical practice. In addition to helping groups identify a formula for the development of a competency framework, the framework itself is designed to provide a basis for educational programmes, personal career development and a tool for managers managing career progression within diabetes nursing.
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Review
A review of the efficacy of dexamethasone in the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting.
To consider the efficacy of dexamethasone in preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting following general anaesthesia and a range of surgical procedures, compared with a placebo of sodium chloride (normal saline). To inform nurses' pharmacological knowledge of the effects of this medication during peri-operative care. ⋯ Nurses in the peri-operative arena can administer this medication, when ordered, with the knowledge based on research evidence as to why it has been included in preoperative protocols. However, dexamethasone has been noted in postanaesthesia recovery care units as a clinical pathway option for the management of postoperative nausea and vomiting and no retrieved articles discuss this option.
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The concept of spirituality is much discussed in the UK nursing literature, despite the fact that Britain is one of the most secular countries in the world, and steadily becoming more so. Here, I pose the following question: given this increasing secularization, what accounts for the current interest in spirituality among UK nurses? ⋯ The extension of spirituality into secular domains is part of a professionalization project in nursing, a claim to jurisdiction over a newly invented sphere of work. For the time being, it remains an academic project (in the UK) as it is not one with which many clinicians identify. Relevance to clinical practice. What counts as 'spiritual need' or 'spiritual care' may not be the same in both countries, and UK clinicians are unlikely to welcome the role of surrogate chaplain, which their USA colleagues are apparently willing to embrace.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
A randomized controlled trial of a community nurse-supported hospital discharge programme in older patients with chronic heart failure.
To evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a community nurse-supported hospital discharge programme in preventing hospital re-admissions, improving functional status and handicap of older patients with chronic heart failure. ⋯ Older chronic heart failure patients are likely to benefit from post-discharge community nurse intervention programmes. More comprehensive health economic evaluation needs to be undertaken.
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The aim of this study was to describe the lived experiences of families in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, who had lost a loved one to a sudden death. ⋯ This qualitative study provides rich data regarding what bereaved family members view as important in their care during this time of crisis. The value of simple, small gestures by the health professional is enlightening. This information can be used to ensure that health professionals purposely direct their interventions and interactions with the bereaved family to ensure that they are managed in the most therapeutic way possible.