Nursing times
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In 2004 the MHRA published a directive for all hospitals in the UK to use pH paper in place of litmus paper when testing position of nasogastric tubes (NGT). This article illustrates one trust's implementation of this process of change in order to achieve compliance.
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The aim of this study was to understand staff perceptions of the role of the hospital palliative care team and to identify knowledge and confidence levels of general staff caring for patients with palliative care needs. ⋯ The findings have considerable implications for palliative care services. Professional education should continue to focus primarily on symptom control and communication skills training, but stress management training should be considered. Staff need to be clear about how to obtain advice and what support is available for cancer patients. Further research is required to understand the needs of HCAs and potential models for education and support.
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Hip fracture is a common injury that predominantly affects older people. Pain following fracture of the neck of the femur is present throughout the illness trajectory, including the preoperative and postoperative periods. This article describes how nurses at one trust implemented an innovative nurse-administered femoral nerve block service.
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The witnessing of resuscitation by a close family member is becoming increasingly common (Booth et al, 2004), yet the area remains under-researched. Findings from a limited number of studies show mixed feelings among health care staff about the benefits to the relative. However, family members who were present during the resuscitation attempt believed they had contributed in some way to the treatment. Health care providers should be aware of the benefits and pitfalls of family witnessed resuscitation (FWR) so they can make evidence-based decisions.