British journal of nursing (Mark Allen Publishing)
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In this article, an intensive care unit (ICU) nurse provides some reflections on caring for patients with COVID-19 and relates her lived experience to the concept of resilience. Similarities and differences to pre-pandemic understandings of resilience are drawn out and factors that mediate acute stress, resilience and psychological recovery during a pandemic are considered. Resources to support ICU nurses and other healthcare staff to manage stress and promote wellbeing are signposted, and important research directions that warrant attention are recommended. The story is one of learning and hope and, importantly, it captures key lessons that can equip healthcare staff with positive coping strategies in a time of unprecedented pressure.
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Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are widely used, but failure is unacceptably common with up to 69% failing before treatment is complete. PIVC securement reduces failure, but the optimal way to achieve this is unclear. Tapes and supplementary securement products are widely used, however rigorous testing of these to reduce PIVC failure remains unexplored. ⋯ Ethical approvals were received from Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital (HREC/18/QRBW/44571) and Griffith University (2018/1000). Trial commencement was May 2019. Trial registration: ACTRN12619000026123.
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The significance of hand hygiene for preventing the transmission of microorganisms and reducing the spread of infection has been brought into sharp focus following the global coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. In the months since the initial outbreak, international public health campaigns and practitioner education has concentrated on hand washing and hand sanitising, with very little reference to hand drying, if any at all. ⋯ This research commentary will focus on two issues of importance with regards to hand drying: microbial transmission and skin irritation, with implications for healthcare practitioners and practice considered. It is argued that a more holistic approach to hand hygiene must be the ambition if health professional and public behaviour is to become embedded and sustained.
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This study intended to examine the long-term effect on the emotional wellbeing and behaviour change of staff, patients and carers who attended a one-day Macmillan course on mindful compassion. ⋯ Training in mindful compassion benefits patients and carers. In both the short and long terms, mindful compassion was found to reduce anxiety, aid sleep, improve pain management and help people feel more empowered, calm and relaxed. It also helped people cope with stressful situations, gave them time for themselves and enabled them to become much more focused.