British journal of nursing (Mark Allen Publishing)
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This study examined the practice of preoperative fluid restrictions and the influence of the hospital 'nil by mouth' policy on clinical practice. Structured interviews were used to assess the knowledge of nurses and anaesthetists relating to current hospital policy, their attitudes to fluid fasting and the constituents of clear fluids. ⋯ Only 30% of nurses were aware of the hospital policy compared with 75% of anaesthetists. The evidence from this study demonstrated that the hospital policy was not reflected in clinical practice which continued to be based on tradition.
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The use of psychotropic medication for people with a learning disability is a controversial issue that has received much attention. This article explores some of the issues for learning disability nurses surrounding the use of psychotropic medication. There are concerns regarding the side-effects that antipsychotic medication can produce. ⋯ Learning disability nurses need a clear understanding of the reasons behind the prescription of such powerful medication especially when it is used in the management of challenging behaviour. There are indications that learning disability nurses would support alternative approaches to medication such as the use of behavioural interventions. More healthcare professionals, direct carers and clients should be encouraged to become part of the multidisciplinary drug-review process.