Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)
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Care for patients with a malignant haematological disorder in Wales has been revised significantly since the mid-1990s. Recommendations from expert groups stated that a uniformly high standard of care should be provided as close to the patient's home as possible and variations in practice that had been causing concern and distress to patients and their families be reduced. ⋯ The basis for the group's work was transformational leadership and collaborative practice. Work is ongoing and the group is planning to consolidate achievements to date through country-wide audit and professional education.
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A literature review was undertaken to establish the effects on surgery patients' anxiety levels of giving them information before they attend theatre. ⋯ There is plenty of evidence that pre-operative information giving can reduce patients' anxiety regarding surgery. It might be better to provide this information before patients are admitted to hospital, as they are more likely to be able to take in the information if they are not already feeling anxious. To provide better patient care, members of the peri-operative team should work together to prepare patients for the psychological and physical consequences of surgery.
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Central venous catheters are increasingly being used in a variety of clinical areas outside critical care. Philip Woodrow examines the indications, measuring techniques and complications associated with central venous pressure monitoring.
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A number of risk factors exist for pregnant women with diabetes and their babies. Collaborative care can ensure that women with pre-existing diabetes, and those who develop diabetes during pregnancy, receive appropriate and individualised care.