bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tuberculosis and infection control
Authors: Karim Kelvin
Published: May 2014

Against a background of rising tuberculosis (TB) rates, increasing incidence of TB and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-infection, coupled with the emergence of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB), the need for effective TB infection control has never been more vital ( World Health Organization (WHO), 2009 ). TB infection control has been defined as ‘a combination of measures aimed at minimizing the risk of TB transmission within populations’ ( WHO, 2009 : p.ix). Health professionals are frequently confused about appropriate infection control measures when caring for patients affected by infectious respiratory tuberculosis ( Mohandas and Cunniffe, 2009 ). This article aims to address the key infection control measures required to optimize patient care and reduce the risk of TB transmission within hospital and community settings.
Smoking cessation: implementing hospital-based services
Authors: Jones Susan , Hamilton Sharon
Published: May 2014

Smoking cessation services are well established in the community. In recent years, an increase in their availability has been recommended and secondary care settings were identified as suitable locations. This article draws on the evidence base underpinning this move and uses findings from an evaluation of such a service introduced into an acute hospital to illustrate the key principles to be considered. These principles included receptiveness of the hospital environment to the smoking cessation message, the importance of organizational preparation before launching the service, collaboration within the hospital and in the community, resourcing of the initiative, training of staff and providing feedback to staff on progress (e.g. quit rates resulting from initiative). The paper concludes that broad acceptance at all levels within the hospital, which enhances a stop smoking culture, in parallel with an in-depth preparation and training period, is required to successfully launch a hospital-based stop smoking service.
Serving within the British army: research into mental health benefits
Authors: Finnegan Alan , Finnegan Sara , McGee Paula , Ashford Robert , Simpson Robin
Published: May 2014

The mental health (MH) of soldiers remains extremely newsworthy and is regularly featured in high profile media forums that focus on post-traumatic stress disorder. However, the authors feel that there are distinct benefits to serving within the Army, and that it provides effective occupational medical, MH and welfare support. This research study explores potential benefits and stressors of being in the Army and provides an overview of Army mental health services (AMHS) through the perspectives of AMHS personnel, 84% of which were nurses. The study indicated that the Army can provide a protective community, sharing a bond based on common values and experiences. The Army can provide soldiers with career opportunities that are not available in civilian life, and there are opportunities to develop an employment profile, enhanced by internal and external educational training, and encapsulated within a progressive career pathway. The Army can also be seen to offer an escape route, preventing soldiers entering a life of crime, and supplying the stable family these soldiers had never experienced. The provision of leadership, within an environment where soldiers are valued and stigma is not tolerated can potentially shield against MH problems.
Benzocaine-induced methaemoglobinaemia: a case study
Authors: Bittmann Stefan , Krüger Carsten
Published: May 2014

Benzocaine is a widely used topical anaesthetic and has been reported to cause toxic methaemoglobinaemia in otherwise healthy individuals with no predisposing risk factors. This article reports on a rare case of benzocaine-induced methaemoglobinaemia following adenotonsillectomy in a 5-year-old girl. Topical benzocaine was applied orally for the relief of postoperative wound pain on the eighth postoperative day. Two hours after application, generalized cyanosis, mild dyspnoea and some degree of agitation developed. The methaemoglobin level was 38.5%. Treatment with methylene blue was initiated immediately. Symptoms completely disappeared 4 hours after initiation of methylene blue therapy. The further course was uneventful. Therefore, all health professionals should be aware that topical anaesthetics after surgery can induce methaemoglobinaemia in children, even after a prolonged interval, and especially when applied on wound surfaces.
Failings in the care of patients receiving parenteral nutrition
Authors: Tingle John
Published: May 2014

John Tingle discusses an NCEPOD report which reveals serious failings in the care of hospital patients receiving parenteral nutrition.
Isolation prioritization tool: revision, adaptation and application
Authors: Jeanes Annette , Macrae Bruce , Ashby Jane
Published: May 2014

The provision of single rooms for the care of patients who require isolation may not match the number required. Placing patients in isolation facilities may have an effect on their psychological wellbeing and the quality of care delivered. To ensure a rational and consistent approach to the prioritization of single room usage, an existing prioritization system was revised. This was validated by a group of experts and tested in an acute hospital. A simple short cut guide was developed and used.
Middle-aged women and everyday life: implications for health
Authors: Elgán Carina , Fridlund Bengt
Published: May 2014

The aim of this study was to describe middle-aged women's perceptions of lifestyle and how it was experienced in their daily lives. Interviews with 15 women selected using network sampling were analysed using a phenomenographic approach.

Lifestyle was perceived as either ‘handle life’, describing a framework of how everyday life should manifest itself in different areas of life, or ‘relate to life’ implying accepting life as it is and making the best of it based on previous experiences. In terms of providing preventive and health-promoting guiding, it is essential that nurses have an insight into people's reasoning to support them to improve health or deal with illness.
Supporting self and others: from staff nurse to nurse consultant. Part 1: chocolate and Marmite!
Authors: Fowler John
Published: May 2014

This series of articles explores various ways of supporting staff who work in the fast-moving and ever-changing health service. In this first article, John Fowler, an experienced nursing lecturer, author and consultant, examines the importance of developing an informal working culture of support from both the individual's perspective and from the perspective of the health service management.
Chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting: a European perspective
Authors: Vidall Cheryl
Published: May 2014

International guidelines have been available for the successful management of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) for several years, yet the experience of patients receiving chemotherapy continues to reflect variable symptom control. This article explores the clinical awareness and application of the guidelines across several European countries from the perspective of the nurses working in oncology units and centres who met at an expert European forum in London in June 2010. It will also identify the existing barriers to the use of best practice guidelines and some of the reasons why clinicians may not be aware of this guidance. There will be some discussion around the use of individualized risk assessments and the prescribing of the most appropriate antiemetic to meet the needs of the individual patient. It will also consider the hospital-produced algorithms and local drug protocols and the limitations on being able to deliver optimal symptom control from day one of cycle one. The role of the nurse in providing holistic care is key to making the experience for chemotherapy patients one to remember, not one they will never forget.
ANTT: an essential tool for effective blood culture collection
Authors: Rowley Stephen , Clare Simon
Published: May 2014

Blood culture collection is an important and topical intravenous procedure for the management of suspected infection. Contaminated samples can lead to ‘false positive’ results, and inappropriate clinical interventions, which can compromise patient outcome and incur significant expense to healthcare organizations. The contamination of blood culture samples by ineffective aseptic technique has been estimated to be as high as 10% ( Department of Health (DH), 2007a ). Aseptic Non Touch Technique (ANTT) is a ground-breaking global initiative designed to improve outcomes of aseptic technique through the rationalization and standardization of practice. The ANTT blood culture collection guideline provides nationally peer-reviewed guidance on safe and efficient blood sampling for laboratory culture. The guideline complements the DH's (2007a) Saving Lives summary of best practice for taking blood cultures, providing health professionals with a standardized method of complying with best practice guidance from the epic project ( Pratt et al, 2007 ).
Meeting the clinical challenges of burns management: a review
Authors: Butcher Martyn
Published: May 2014

This article will look at some of the major clinical challenges faced by the clinician when managing the burn wound, identify how the Mölnlycke Health Care range of dressings with Safetac® is designed to meet these needs and provide evidence of the effectiveness of these products in this challenging field of wound care.
What we know now: pouch surgery 40 years on
Authors: Williams Julia
Published: May 2014

For many patients, ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (also called ileoanal pouch surgery) not only eradicates disease but also preserves the anal sphincter, enabling the patient to defecate in the normal way. Pouch surgery is approaching 40 years and within this time has become the ‘gold standard’ in surgical management for ulcerative colitis and familial adeomatous polyposis. Much of the research over the years has explored surgical techniques and pouch function, failure and satisfaction, as well as long-term follow-up; however, some pouch problems continue to be a mystery. This short article aims to bring us up to date with what we know now that might have been beneficial to know then.
Lymphoedema treatment in palliative care: a case study
Authors: Cooper Garry
Published: May 2014

This article will focus on the evidence to support the treatment of a palliative patient who was diagnosed with cancer-related secondary lymphoedema. A case study approach has been adopted, which focuses on the anatomy and physiology of lymphoedema and how this is treated through an analysis of the treatment regimens. To establish the effectiveness of these treatment regimes, the use of objective and subjective tools will also be analysed to ascertain their importance within care. The findings of this case study and the supporting evidence indicate a positive correlation between the use of lymphoedema treatment methods in both limb volume reduction and quality-of-life outcomes. However, robust evidence is required to expand the importance of each treatment used in the area of lymphoedema management.
Perspectives on shared decision making in health care
Authors: Tingle John
Published: May 2014

John Tingle discusses a recent report by the Health Foundation on shared decision making in health care
Assistant practitioners: lessons learned from licensed practical nurses
Authors: Whittingham Katrina
Published: May 2014

The role of the assistant practitioner (AP) needs to be defined so they have clear career pathways and opportunities for professional development. The author sought to learn from other countries where a sustained effort had been made to support practitioners fulfilling this intermediate role. The equivalent of an AP in Canada is the licensed practical nurse (LPN); LPNs are subject to clear regulation and practice within their remit of their license. The author travelled to Alberta, Canada, and performed a qualitative study to investigate the role of the LPN. LPNs undertake a 2-year diploma-level course and have the opportunity to enhance their careers through specialist courses or to train as a RN. LPNs benefit from careful regulation, enabling them to have a clear scope of practice, a career structure with opportunities for development and consistent ethical standards. Lessons can be learned from the LPN model and put in practice in the UK; APs need a consistent education programme, a career pathway that promotes development and effective regulation.
Moving and handling and patient safety: analysis of clinical incidents
Authors: Cornish Jocelyn , Jones Anne
Published: May 2014

Aim:

The aim of this study is to identify the potential contribution of moving and handling practice to clinical incidents through an analysis of incident data.

Background:

Previous studies focusing on moving and handling have highlighted potential harm to patients through poor practice, and have suggested that this might be an issue for patient safety. However, this has not been identified in studies analysing clinical incident reports, where the potential contribution of moving and handling has not been recognized. This study reports an analysis of clinical incident data from the specific perspective of moving and handling.

Design:

Survey of clinical incident reports in hospital in-patient care settings

Method:

A random sample of 500 incident reports was analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis of qualitative data.

Results:

There is an indication that some staff are not following recommended moving and handling policy through a lack of risk assessment; for example, in the selection of appropriate actions to assist patients, and in the prevention of further occurrences of incidents where patients had fallen. The limited detail within the reports affected consideration of the causes of the incidents and actions that could be taken to prevent a further occurrence.

Conclusions:

Some of the reported staff actions may contravene policy guidelines. Missing detail in the incident reports inhibited investigation of incidents that could lead to appropriate and safe systems of work being identified.
Recent healthcare reports reveal patient safety failings
Authors: Tingle John
Published: May 2014

John Tingle discusses two important new reports, one from NCEPOD highlighting major failings in the perioperative care of surgical patients and the other from the CQC, the Mental Health Act Annual Report 2010/11 . Both reports point to a common theme of failings in the consent to treatment of patients.
Enhanced recovery after surgery: implications for nurses
Authors: Foss Mark , Bernard Helena
Published: May 2014

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is a programme of evidence-based interventions that minimize the body's response to surgical stress. ERAS enables patients to be safely discharged from hospital earlier than previously thought possible. This article examines three aspects of enhanced recovery: improving preoperative counselling, reducing the body's stress response, and reducing pain and promoting comfort. The opportunity for nursing research is discussed in the context of patient experiences.
Pneumonia part 3: management and prevention of influenza virus
Authors: Driver Carolyn
Published: May 2014

This is the third and final article in a series looking at the morbidity and mortality associated with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). It will discuss the epidemiology of influenza and the part that it plays in this important disease, and will also look at preventive strategies.
Meeting the health needs of older people with learning disabilities
Authors: Jenkins Robert
Published: May 2014

The increasing population of older people with learning disabilities may lead to higher demand for contact with registered nurses. To date, little research has been undertaken regarding the role of registered nurses in meeting the health and care needs of this client group. In this article, the author reports on the second stage of a three-stage research study that used six case studies to explore this issue. Implications for nursing were identified in areas such as health needs, record keeping, medication, advocacy, social aspects, ageing in place, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) feeding, spirituality and end-of-life care. The author concludes that registered nurses will need to continue to remain up to date to meet the complex needs of older individuals with learning disabilities.
Interprofessional working: the only way forward
Authors: Botten Emma Louise
Published: May 2014

Emma Louise Botten is a second-year nursing student at King's College London and a regular contributor to the BJN Student Column. In this issue, Emma talks about the significance of interprofessional working and the benefits of this approach to nursing care.
Deprivation of liberty safeguards: A human rights issue
Authors: Tingle John
Published: May 2014

John Tingle looks at a new report on deprivation of liberty safeguards from the Care Quality Commission.
Meninigitis immunisation: challenges, successes and new developments
Authors: Boulton Jacqueline
Published: May 2014

Meningitis, defined as the inflammation of the lining surrounding the spine and the brain, can be caused by bacteria, viruses and fungi. Bacterial meningitis is the most serious form of the disease, causing around 170 000 deaths worldwide each year. Most cases of bacterial meningitis are caused by three bacteria—Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis and Haemophilus influenzae type B. In the UK, vaccines are available to combat most of these, yet, according to the Meningitis Research Foundation, around 3400 cases of bacterial meningitis and septicaemia occur every year in the UK and the Republic of Ireland. This article reviews the history of vaccination against meningitis, explores the challenges facing nurses who are at the interface of immunisation policy and public expectations, outlines the current schedule and discusses advances in vaccine technology that offer the potential of a new immunisation against N meningitidis B, the leading cause of meningitis in the UK.
Improving the uptake of HIV testing in patients with tuberculosis
Authors: Clerk Nigel , Antunes George , Williams John , Dibble Wendy
Published: May 2014

The HIV epidemic has increased the global tuberculosis (TB) burden and focused attention on the need to strengthen links between TB and HIV programmes in order to tackle these public health issues more effectively ( World Health Organization (WHO), 2004 ). HIV testing is now recommended in various healthcare settings and guidelines state that it should include all patients with a diagnosis of active TB ( British HIV Association, British Association of Sexual Health and HIV, British Infection Society, 2008 ; Health Protection Agency (HPA), 2009 ). This has been shown to standardise HIV testing and improve outcomes as HIV infection will affect the management of active TB and will reduce transmission of the virus within the community ( HPA, 2009 ). The purpose of this study was to determine if a change had occurred after the introduction of nurse-led HIV testing following the results of an audit. The re-audit examined whether a change had occurred in the rate of HIV testing in confirmed active TB cases. The study covered a 12-month period; 31 cases of active TB were identified for inclusion in the study. Patients were offered testing in 90.3% of cases and the results strongly demonstrated that nurse-led HIV testing can improve uptake in both a clinic and community setting.
Pioneers of Care awards shines a light on excellence
Authors: Smith Julie
Published: May 2014

The Pioneers of Care awards recognises nurses who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to affect patient care in a positive, efficient and empathetic way, and have helped to tackle problems in frontline care and improve the lives of patients by introducing new techniques or innovations.
The end of one journey, the start of another
Authors: Easby Deborah
Published: May 2014

Deborah Easby, who has been a nursing student at Sheffield Hallam University, is on the brink of starting her first job. Here she looks back on her training and looks forward to her future as a qualified critical care nurse. She also has some tips for those starting out on the same journey
Clinical competency assessment in intravenous therapy and vascular access: part 2
Authors: Hulse Anna Louise
Published: May 2014

This article explores and critically evaluates clinical practice competencies as a form of assessment within post-registration nurse education, specifically relating to competence assessment of intravenous (IV) therapy. In the first article in this two-part series, ‘Competency assessment in intravenous therapy and vascular access: part 1’ (BJN, 22(16)), an in-depth literature review was carried out and applied to current competency assessment design. Clinical staff opinion was sought to evaluate users' opinions of this assessment method against recommended literature. The aim of both articles is to describe critically and analyse existing practice using this form of assessment, and relate other forms of assessment to IV therapy and vascular access clinical competence. A small-scale study was performed to evaluate whether clinical competency assessment is the most appropriate form of assessment of IV therapy and vascular access skills. A questionnaire was designed to assess nurse opinion in relation to advantages (positives) and disadvantages (negatives) of clinical practice competency assessment; 35 randomly selected post-registered nurses were included in the sample. Findings illustrated that clinical competency assessment is the most appropriate form for the assessment of clinical skills in IV therapy. However, recommendations were made for the possible use of Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) assessment. Furthermore, this report recommends the assessment of theory and knowledge through written exams or multiple-choice questions (MCQs) as an addition to clinical practice competence assessment for IV therapy.
COPD self-management supportive care: chaos and complexity theory
Authors: Cornforth Amber
Published: May 2014

This paper uses the emergent theories of chaos and complexity to explore the self-management supportive care of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients within the evolving primary care setting. It discusses the concept of self-management support, the complexity of the primary care context and consultations, smoking cessation, and the impact of acute exacerbations and action planning. The author hopes that this paper will enable the acquisition of new insight and better understanding in this clinical area, as well as support meaningful learning and facilitate more thoughtful, effective and high quality patient-centred care within the context of primary care.
Role modelling and students' professional development
Authors: Felstead Ian
Published: May 2014

Patients expect to be cared for by nurses who are not only competent but also behave professionally, so students must be educated to develop professional qualities. The Nursing and Midwifery Council stipulates that professional values must underpin education as well as practice (NMC, 2010a). Much has been written on the qualities of an effective role model and the potential barriers to becoming one. This article focuses on preregistration adult nursing education and role modelling, with a slant towards the development of professionalism, as opposed to skills competence. Attention is paid to the identity of students' role models and strategies for role modelling linked to teaching and the curriculum. Practice and academic staff have an equal stake in nurse education; for them to be seen equally as role models, there has to be a partnership approach to that education. Both practice and academic staff are able to exemplify behaviours and attitudes that directly influence the development of professionalism. This article is intended to stimulate discussion within and between nurse educators and practice-based staff about the impact their role modelling has on the development of adult nursing students' professional practice.
Patient care and management: reduced skin integrity of the foot
Authors: Bateman Sharon D
Published: May 2014

The development and deterioration of pressure ulcers are a frequent occurrence across all healthcare settings and specialties, posing daily challenges to the healthcare worker and unnecessary suffering to the patient. Reduced skin integrity occurs within those patients deemed high risk, particularly to the vulnerable areas such as the heel and ankle ( American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), 1996) . The incidence of pressure ulcers, alongside diabetes, vascular insufficiency and obesity, is on the increase, posing additional demands on current clinical resources; specialist clinics, debridement therapies and appropriate dressing management regimes. This article will focus on the heel and ankle in regards to reduced skin integrity and the positive introduction of an innovative dressing product as an adjunct to the overall care and management of this patient group.
Transforming primary care for the most vulnerable in society
Authors: Glasper Alan
Published: May 2014

Professor Alan Glasper examines the potential of the new Department of Health and NHS England policy, ‘Transforming Primary Care’, to provide ‘safe, proactive, personalised care’ for the most vulnerable people in our society
The Hillsborough disaster: how it has changed UK healthcare law. Part 1
Authors: Griffith Richard
Published: May 2014

The 25th anniversary of the Hillsborough Stadium disaster was commemorated this year with memorial services and a toll of bells to remember the 96 who died that day. Their legacy is largely seen in safe, modern, all-seat stadia but it endures beyond football. Court cases resulting from the aftermath of the tragedy have helped shape healthcare law in the UK and in a short series of articles Richard Griffith highlights the impact the Hillsborough disaster has had, beginning with the development of the law in relation to psychiatric injury arising from another's negligent act.
CQC develops new criteria for quality and safety of care
Authors: Glasper Alan
Published: May 2014

Professor Alan Glasper discusses the Care Quality Commission's (CQC) new strategy to monitor care delivery in English hospitals—and what it means for the nursing profession
The lived experiences of nurses in one hyper-acute stroke unit
Authors: Catangui Elmer Javier , Roberts Clifford John
Published: May 2014

Hyper-acute stroke units (HASUs) admit all stroke patients across London. As a novel London stroke model, the integration of thrombolysis in acute ischaemic stroke is an important element of hyper-acute stroke care for patients. In this model, nurses working in a hyper-acute stroke unit are involved in the delivery of thrombolysis treatment. By use of a phenomenological approach, the study investigates the ‘lived experiences’ of nurses’ preparation for their role and explores any factors that affect nurses’ participation in thrombolysis treatment. The nurses’ roles—which facilitate, support, monitor, anticipate and result in prevention—are central to effective thrombolysis treatment. However, factors such as communication, teamwork, clinical decision, training, staffing and safety affect their thrombolysis roles. Addressing factors that affect nurses’ thrombolysis roles could lead to improved communication, collaborative teamwork and better patient outcomes.
Confirming nasogastric tube position with electromagnetic tracking versus pH or X-ray and tube radio-opacity
Authors: Taylor Stephen , Allan Kaylee , McWilliam Helen , Manara Alex , Brown Jules , Toher Deirdre , Rayner Wendy
Published: May 2014

Recent evidence suggests official statistics greatly underestimate the occurrence of complications from misplaced nasogastric (NG) tubes, even when detected. Current methods of confirming tube position do not provide adequate protection from misplacement. In addition, some tubes are inadequately radio-opaque. We prospectively audited placement of Cortrak polyurethane tubes (PUTs) to determine: accuracy of the electromagnetic (EM) trace in confirming tube position, radio-opacity of PUTs compared with previously placed polyvinylchloride (PVC) Ryles tubes and whether 12 French PUTs can be used to aspirate gastric residual volumes (GRVs). A total of 127 PUTs were placed in 113 patients. EM traces accurately confirmed tube position compared with X-ray (100% agreement). A ‘gastric’ EM trace has been defined for future use by other operators. PUTs were adequately radio-opaque with good agreement between interpreters (>98%) whereas PVC Ryles tubes were insufficiently radio-opaque (57–73%), invisible in 23% of cases and with poor agreement between interpreters leaving risk of error. The alternative of using pH confirmation was not possible in 44%. In these cases subsequent X-ray incurred a 2-hour delay to feed and medicines. In addition, neither post-placement pH testing nor X-ray warn of lung placement and potential trauma, whereas the EM trace warned of lung placement prior to damage in 7% of placements. 12 French, single-port PUTs appear adequate to aspirate large GRVs. EM tracing may be considered a standalone method of confirming NG tube position. Corflo (Cortrak) PUTs are adequately radio-opaque. Use of PVC Ryles and other inadequately radio-opaque tubes should stop.
Sharps legislation and assessment of needle protection systems
Authors: Wright Paul , Caughey Gary , Antoniou Sotiris
Published: May 2014

Needlestick injuries (NSIs) carry the potential for transmission of serious blood-borne infections and pose a significant risk to patients and healthcare staff. These infections come with an estimated cost of £300 million per year in the UK ( Saia et al, 2010 ). An EU directive mandated in May of 2013 has sought to minimise the risk of NSI though the introduction of needle-protection systems. The authors of this article set out to assess nursing knowledge of this legislation and ascertain which needle-protection systems for low-molecular weight heparin/anti Xa (for subcutaneous administration) were preferred in a large teaching trust. Approximately half of the nurses questioned had some knowledge of the legislation and almost all agreed that there is a need for needle protection systems. All four devices tested meet requirements for the legislation but the preferred devices were the needle protection system for enoxaparin and fondaparinux with a self-sheathing style device after activation.
Indwelling urinary catheter use at the end of life: a retrospective audit
Authors: Farrington Naomi , Fader Mandy , Richardson Alison , Prieto Jacqui , Bush Harriet
Published: May 2014

This audit aimed to measure: the prevalence of indwelling urinary catheters in patients at the end of life; the use of nursing documentation relating to catheter insertion and care; and prevalence of continence screening on admission. The audit involved a retrospective examination of case notes of patients who died on two oncology wards and a hospice at a large teaching hospital in the south of England. The audit showed that 63% of patients had an indwelling catheter during their admission. Documentation relating to urinary catheter insertion and care was present in 75% of cases, and 75% of patients received continence screening on admission. The findings confirm that indwelling urinary catheters are frequently used as a tool to manage urinary difficulties at the end of life, but that the indications for insertion and continued use can be unclear. Research is needed to establish appropriate use.
Promotion of physical wellbeing in schizophrenia and psychosis: implications for NHS trusts
Authors: Sin Jacqueline , Bonner Gwen
Published: May 2014

This paper examines the recent recommendations from a National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guideline on physical health issues and care for individuals with schizophrenia and psychosis. A recent scoping exercise undertaken by Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is reported with reference to the methodologies and tools used to illustrate the evidence-based baseline measurement of compliance on such recommendations. Discussion on the scoping findings will be followed by an exploration of the challenges facing NHS trusts as they attempt to implement the recommendations. Some relevant strategies are proposed, such as focusing on enhancing collaboration between primary and secondary services, innovative practice changes, and instituting workforce development and training initiatives.
Continuing Professional Development: The value(s) of improving access to psychological therapy
Authors: Dodd (formerly Woodbridge) Kim , Dodd Tom
Published: May 2014

The Improving Access to Psychological Therapy programme (IAPT) seeks to deliver therapeutic evidence based interventions to large numbers of people across the country that experience depression and anxiety. The key features of values-based practice can help to recognise and work with the values that are present, and how these impact on the experiences of those delivering and receiving therapy. This article offers readers an opportunity to reflect on their practice and complete a multiple choice questionnaire
Midwives, mothers and healthy citizens
Authors: Nolan Mary L
Published: May 2014

With a rising birth rate over the past decade, concerns have been raised over midwifery staffing levels. Mary Nolan comments on the effect this is having on the wellbeing of both mothers and their babies
Uncovering emotions at Engagement Sands
Authors: Bates Peter
Published: May 2014

This is the third article in the series that uses the metaphor of Triangle Island, which explores the relationship between people who use services, the agencies that provide them, and the communities in which both live. This article wll look in more detail at some of the challenges faced by staff who seek to build connections with mainstream community organisations.
Application of the HADS to academic and non-academic nurses in Germany
Authors: Jeschke Sandra , Gaidys Uta , Martin Colin R
Published: May 2014

Despite an increase in depression and anxiety-related illnesses among nursing staff, it is still unknown whether the manifestation of specific symptoms varies among academic and nonacademic nurses. The random sample consisted of 212 German nurses. In addition to listing demographic and educational information, the German version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was applied. The values of the anxiety sub-scale were located in the lower range in both groups and without significant difference (academic nurses: M=5.9, SD=3.0/non-academic nurses: M=6.2, SD=3.2). The HADS depression sub-scale showed a significant difference (P=0.001) between the non-academic group (M=4.7, SD=3.2) and the group of academic nurses (M=3.3, SD=2.9). Before making definite statements on whether an academic education can contribute to a reduction of anxiety or depression symptoms among nursing staff, it is necessary to further explore the manifold factors of psychosocial stress in a profession that currently undergoes considerable changes.
Recollections of Nightline
Authors: Gillam Tony
Published: May 2014

Tony Gillam reflects on his experience of volunteering for the university support service Nightline and how it influenced his decision to pursue a career in mental health
The Charlie Waller Memorial Trust: actions speak louder than words
Authors: Garnett Naomi
Published: May 2014

The Charlie Waller Memorial Trust has been raising awareness of depression through numerous channels since its inception. Naomi Garnett outlines the background of the Trust and its projects
Theatre rehearsal becomes a social psychological experiment
Authors: Pabani Aysha
Published: May 2014

Aysha Pabani reviews a recent production of One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest which ran in March at Theatro Technis in Camden. She describes how the production took an experimental approach with interactive rehearsals to challenge public misconceptions of mental illness
The blend of science, art and spirituality in the study and treatment of psychosis
Authors: Chadwick Peter
Published: May 2014

Peter Chadwick argues that the wellbeing of psychosis sufferers is better served by something far more than science as we currently understand and construe it
Improving outcomes: why ‘Every Child Matters’
Authors: Powell Catherine
Published: May 2014

The programme of change outlined in the Every Child Matters policy for England aims to achieve better outcomes for all children and young people, as well as narrowing the gap between those who do well and those who do not. As Catherine Powell explains, school nursing has a significant role to play in meeting its aims.
School nursing for the future: Principles and strategy
Authors: Coverdale Gill
Published: May 2014

The government has pledged to ‘modernize’ the role of school nurses. In this article, Gill Coverdale discusses her personal perspective on the evolving role of school nurses, and what factors might hold them back.
Development of a school nurse care pathway for self-harm
Authors: Roberts Bev
Published: May 2014

Having identified an increase in self-harm behaviour among young people in their area, a specially convened team developed a care pathway for young people who self-harm, which was introduced in September 2005. This article discusses the process of development, and plans for the future.
Theatre in education project in a young offenders institution
Authors: Temperton Heather , Henley Rachel , Dudgon Martin , Flanagan Tilly
Published: May 2014

Sexual health education is as important for incarcerated young offenders as it is for young people in schools. An innovative project in Staffordshire organized for a play addressing sexual health to be performed in a young offenders institution, with interesting results.
Halting the rising trend in obesity
Authors: Upson Elaine
Published: May 2014

Obesity is now a significant public health issue and school nurses have been identified as key public health and primary care practitioners to take the lead in supporting children and young people to make healthy food choices and make a real difference in shaping the future health of the population.
Exploring school-level obesity rates in South Staffordshire
Authors: Teale Alison , Jones Suzanne , Hansford Karen , Harrison Wayne
Published: May 2014

Local childhood obesity monitoring data can be a valuable resource for health communities and provide useful feedback for schools. However care must be taken in how the data are used. What role can a school nurse play to help improve school children’s health?
A week in the life of an Independent School Nurse
Authors: Matthews Diana
Published: May 2014

Every day presents new and interesting challenges for Diana Matthews in her role as an Independent School Nurse but she loves every minute of it. From teaching Life Skills and attending meetings, to organizing study days for other School Nurses, life is never quiet or boring.
Lunchtime drop-in clinics accessible in schools
Authors: Allen Betsy
Published: May 2014

Young people and children need to be able to access health services easily if they are to learn how to take care of their own health as they enter adulthood. School nurses are in an ideal position to provide a service to young people that could help them talk about their health needs.
A week in the life of a Queens Nurse Award winner
Authors: Mcneill Margaret
Published: May 2014

Along with a hectic week as a school nurse for an independent girl’s school in Manchester, Margaret also puts in time as a reflexologist for the teachers and is thrilled when her hard work as a school nurse is recognised by community nursing charity the Queen’s Nursing Institute (QNI).
Drinking by children and adolescents: a role for school nurses
Authors: Seabrook Rachel , McNeill Andrew
Published: May 2014

With teenage drinking on the rise, and binge drinking becoming a common feature of a night out, school nurses are ideally placed to educate young people on the risks they are taking with their health.
Chronic pain in childhood: what support do they need?
Authors: Connell Hannah
Published: May 2014

Chronic or recurrent pain can lead to pain associated disability, whereby the lives of children and their families are significantly disrupted. While pain itself is difficult to treat medically, the pain associated disability can be minimized. School nurses could have an important role in this.
Sex education at school
Authors: Harvey Rowan
Published: May 2014

Personal, Social and Health Education is needed in schools to teach young people about social and emotional development and, importantly, sex education. With high numbers of teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases being readily spread, something clearly needs to be done.
Providing the best for our parents: a systematic review
Authors: Day Patricia
Published: May 2014

Parenting is inextricably linked with the wellbeing of all children and the incidence of children with emotional and behavioural difficulties is increasing. School nurses have an important role to play in parenting support, particularly with parenting interventions.
Getting the balance right
Authors: Valentine Stephanie
Published: May 2014

More and more children are becoming obese, significantly increasing their chances of becoming overweight adults. However, it is possible to reverse the effects of obesity, and educating children on the importance of a healthy diet and physical activity are important if this is to happen.
Delivering the Cervarix vaccine: Your role
Authors: Godson Rosalind
Published: May 2014

The new school year will bring challenges to school nurses as Cervarix, the anti-cancer vaccine, will be introduced into school immunization programmes. This paper comments on what nurses should expect and consider as they take on this new responsibility.
The HPV immunization programme: difficult choices for managers
Authors: Gleeson Catherine
Published: May 2014

This September sees the launch of the HPV immunization for girls aged 12–13 years across the country. School nurses managers now face the difficult task of deciding what other duties can be put ‘on hold’ to make time for the vaccination to be delivered.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in the classroom
Authors: Briggs Michael
Published: May 2014

In the first of two articles, the history and causes of ADHD will be explored. An increased awareness of this disorder can help the school nurse play an important part in ensuring the right diagnosis is made.
Prevention and progression: Independent school nurses
Authors: Dudeney Jane
Published: May 2014

In August this year, Jane Dudeney, Editor of the British Journal of School Nursing,attended the Royal College of Nursing’s independent school nurse conference. Here she provides a brief overview of the day’s events.
Safeguarding and confidentiality: protecting children and young people
Authors: Collyer Natalie , Whitehead Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Confidentiality is the most important thing to young people using sexual health services. Measures intended to safeguard young people from harm are inadvertently threatening confidentiality to the detriment of young people’s sexual health and risking exploitation and abuse remaining hidden
PSHE education on infant feeding: Influencing young people’s views
Authors: Allen Candia
Published: May 2014

Promoting breastfeeding to young people is a complex issue in our society where formula-feeding is an accepted norm. The young people in the Lawnswood study would welcome a societal change in attitudes to breastfeeding, which could be helped in part by having education in school on infant feeding.
The HPV vaccination: A mother and daughter’s viewpoint
Authors: Ellerby Hellen
Published: May 2014

The human papillomavirus vaccination campaign has now been running for almost six months. Hellen Ellerby conducted an interview with a mother and a daughter to find out what doubts or hopes parents and children may attach to the vaccine.
Teaching tips for school nurses: Keeping pupils engaged in PSHE
Authors: Deacon Nichola
Published: May 2014

Teaching tips for delivering PSHE, for school nurses with no previous classroom experience. Nichola Deacon provides tips on delivering engaging PSHE lessons.
Raising understanding of myalgic encephalopathy
Authors: Willows Mary-Jane
Published: May 2014

Myalgic encephalopathy or chronic fatigue syndrome is the most common cause of long-term absence among school children. If not detected early it can lead to severe and enduring health consequences.
The child health strategy: Implications for school nursing
Authors: Croghan Emma
Published: May 2014

Emma Croghan provides an overview of the contents and aims of Healthy Lives, Brighter Future: The Strategy for Children and Young People’s Health.
Epilepsy part 1: Recognizing seizure types and diagnosis
Authors: Flower Diane
Published: May 2014

Most schools will have one or more children with epilepsy, therefore it is important for school nurses to understand the condition. In this first article of a series, Diane Flower provides an overview of the different types of seizures and the diagnosis of epilepsy.
Myalgic encephalopathy: Sustaining an education
Authors: James Katie
Published: May 2014

Myalgic encephalopathy (ME) is the most common cause of long-term absence among school children. This second article on ME concentrates on providing an education to children suffering from the condition that takes all their needs into account.
Like it or lump it: Getting boys to self-examine
Authors: Cotton Richard
Published: May 2014

The incidence of testicular cancer has been rising over the last four decades. Richard Cotton explains why it is so important to raise awareness of the condition and teach testicular self-examination.
Making first aid accessible: Empowering young people
Authors: Brunwin Liz
Published: May 2014

In response to Carolyn M Crouchman’s previously published articles on first aid, Liz Brunwin outlines why concern about possible litigation over providing first aid in schools should not be a barrier to helping build a generation of life-savers.
Supporting children and young people with anxiety
Authors: Weston Frances
Published: May 2014

In this article in a series on different mental health issues affecting children and young people, Frances Weston looks at anxiety disorders, their causes and symptoms.
Understanding the background of the commissioning system
Authors: Crabtree Elaine
Published: May 2014

The background of the commissioning agenda can help provide a better understanding of its aims and the basis for its development.
Dermatology: Differentiating parasitic skin infestations
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: May 2014

Parasitic skin infestation and insect bites can cause discomfort and feelings of embarrassment in children and young people. It is important for school nurses to be able to differentiate them and offer appropriate advice on treatment.
NICE issues new guidance on idiopathic childhood constipation
Authors: Weaver Anne
Published: May 2014

The new National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guideline for the diagnosis and management of idiopathic childhood constipation highlights school nurses as a point of contact for information and ongoing support. Anne Weaver looks at the possible implications for school nurses.