bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obesity
Authors: Orr John
Published: December 2006

While recognizing that many factors may contribute to the causation of ischaemic heart disease, this project attempts an in‐depth examination of just one of them — obesity. The author has endeavoured to discover if there are sex differences in the incidence of obesity and whether or not obesity is related to age. Whilst recognizing the limitations of the small sample used in this project some tentative conclusions/speculations will be outlined. Some attempt has been made to discover if the average person is aware of what is meant by the term ‘obesity’ and if they sec themselves as having this problem. Because of an intuition that people may become obese due to bad eating habits and ignorance about the nutritional value of certain foodstuffs, subjects were asked to list the calorific value of certain foods and their responses are discussed. A further attempt was made to ascertain whether the respondents had ever gone on a diet and if so, the type of diet and the success or otherwise of this measure. The subjects were further questioned to discover their level of knowledge regarding the possibility of certain disorders arising as a consequence of obesity and asked to outline what action they would take if they were faced with these consequences. Some conclusions have been drawn regarding the actions which would be taken when faced with crippling consequences. Finally, an attempt has been made to discover if some psychosocial states contributed to the causation of obesity or whether obesity leads to some psychosocial problems. As a result of these findings and a review of current literature on the subject, certain recommendations have been made.
The attitudes of nurse tutor students towards behavioural objectives: background and method of study
Authors: Martin Harry , Sheehan John
Published: December 2006

Since behavioural objectives are rooted in behaviouristic psychology there is a brief discussion of some notable behaviourists. This is followed by reference to some key characters in the behavioural objectives movement. The strengths and weaknesses of behavioural objectives are discussed with reference to the relevant literature. Behavioural objectives in nursing education are considered and the tensions which their use may give rise to are noted. Finally, details are given of how a small‐scale empirical study relating to behavioural objectives was conducted.
Behaviour modification in nursing practice and research: a case study
Authors: Blair Charles
Published: December 2006

Using a behaviour modification programme, an attempt was made to teach a 39‐year‐old dependent patient with a medical diagnosis of schizophrenia to reacquire and maintain self‐care behaviours. Dependence in this project was limited to morning care behaviours, i.e. mouth‐washing, face‐washing, shaving and bathing. Praise and a token economy programme were used to reduce the number of prompts (help and reminders) the patient needed to accomplish the targeted behaviours. Although the treatment programme ran for only 4 weeks because the patient was prematurely transferred to another ward, an evaluation of the programme shows that nursing staff in psychiatric hospitals can facilitate healthy behaviours in schizophrenic patients through behaviour management skills.
Nursing knowledge of hepatitis B infection
Authors: Ho‐Yen D.O. , Crossan M.N. , Walker E.
Published: December 2006

A questionnaire was given to nurses in two hospitals, one general and one psychiatric. Answers to the questions revealed a lack of knowledge of the natural history of hepatitis B infection. There were no apparent differences between specialities or grades of nursing staff. Confusion of hepatitis A infection with hepatitis B infection was not the cause of incorrect answers.
Breast feeding: differences in prevalence between Caucasian and negroid women resident in Paddington and North Kensington, London, England
Authors: Hall David J. , Berry Elaine , Zunguza Clare
Published: December 2006

Three hundred and thirty‐seven Caucasian women and 150 negroid women who were resident in an inner London health district, who gave birth in the district's maternity unit and who were transferred home before 6 days after delivery were studied in respect of their intentions and practices for feeding their babies. Differences in the numbers breast feeding within and between various sub‐groups of the two racial groups were compared and inferences drawn in respect of to which group effort in promoting breast feeding should be directed.
The Betty Neuman Systems Model in nursing practice: a case study approach
Authors: Ross Margaret M. , Bourbonnais Frances F.
Published: December 2006

The value of models of nursing to provide direction for nursing practice, education and research is becoming increasingly evident in the literature. Nursing is developing a heightened awareness of the importance of models as vehicles to professional accountability. By delineating the boundaries of nursing, they serve as a framework for the development of nursing knowledge. This paper describes the use of the Betty Neuman Systems Model in practice using a case study approach. The selection of the model for practice reflects the congruency between the practitioner's personal values and assumptions and those of the model, the major elements of which are highlighted in the first section of the paper. The second section explores the model in practice via a nursing situation in which the client is recovering at home following hospitalization and treatment for a myocardial infarction.
Theory of nursing as curriculum content
Authors: Roberts Kathryn L.
Published: December 2006

This article presents an introduction to theories of nursing, and a discussion of the structure of the discipline, its relationship to the nursing curriculum, and nursing theories as curriculum content. Some results of a content analysis of curricula for Australian post‐basic clinical nursing courses are presented. Such curricula do not appear to afford much coverage of the nursing process and theories of nursing.
An examination of research priorities in nurse education
Authors: Rodgers Jean M.
Published: December 2006

This paper outlines research priorities in general student nurse training, which include looking at curriculum content and methods of teaching/learning, and the linking of theory and practice—particularly the inclusion of research findings. The student nurse's ability and counselling needs are assessed. Finally, the need for research into the teacher's training and role is outlined.
Student unrest: a challenge for nurse educators
Authors: Wong Julia , Wong Shirley , Mensah Lynette L.
Published: December 2006

Nursing students, like their college counterparts, are beginning to revolt against hierarchical authority and to claim a more active part in their educational planning. Nurse educators can no longer assume that their students will never revolt; they must face up to the challenge of developing strategies for proper management of student unrest. The authors propose some ways to deal with the complex issue of student unrest. These suggestions are made with emphasis on faculty‐student relationship and the curriculum. Improved faculty‐student relationships, proper utilization of student peer influence and student involvement in curriculum planning are some of the strategies proposed in this paper.
A programme for developing nurses’ skills and nursing practice
Authors: Hentinen Maija , Sinkkonen Sirkka
Published: December 2006

In this paper we describe a programme for developing nursing care for patients with myocardial infarction (MI) and report some results of a study in which applicability and effectiveness of this programme were evaluated. To investigate how the programme influenced nursing practice, nurses’ readiness (knowledge, skills, motivation, accountability) to provide care for MI patients was followed for 2 years. Data for the evaluation were collected by questionnaires from three categories of nurses, by analysing nursing documents before and 1 and 2 years after the programme started, and by keeping a continuous diary. This programme made an impact on many variables that measure changes in nursing practice and nurses’ readiness to provide care. The implications of this programme for nursing practice, research, education and administration are discussed.
New areas of theory development and practice in patient education
Authors: Redman Barbara K.
Published: December 2006

Patient education, which is central to nursing practice, is evolving as a body of theory and in its application to groups of clients. This paper outlines a new body of theory known as self‐efficacy theory, which has considerable potential to improve patient outcomes from teaching. This theory posits that patient belief that he can perform a necessary behaviour (self‐efficacy) can be affected by four principal sources of information: performance attainments, vicarious experience, verbal persuasion, and perceived physiological states. This paper also describes new applications of patient education for psychiatric patients and notes the potential for the expanded educational services for geriatric patients. These programmes have the potential to save hospital costs and to improve quality of life but appear to be in early stages of programme development. Active development and management of a field's theory base and practice applications is fragmented in the patient education field but important to the field's continued relevance and vigour.
Feelings and attitudes during early convalescence following vascular surgery
Authors: Ronayne Roberta
Published: December 2006

This descriptive study examined patients’ attitudes and feelings towards convalescence following vascular surgery, A convenience sample of 25 subjects consisted of patients who had initial (18) and repeat (7) surgery. A self‐administered questionnaire and a semi‐structured interview guide were utilized to examine patients’ perceptions concerning health, uncertainty about the outcome of surgery and course of disease, and their degree of adherence to discharge instructions. The findings suggested that the early convalescent period was difficult for all patients, but particularly for those in the repeat surgery group. Although data analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in perceptions between groups, repeat surgery patients tended to experience less favourable perceptions of health, a higher level of uncertainty, and a lower rate of adherence to discharge instructions.
District Health Authority policy and the ‘extended clinical role of the nurse’ in primary health care
Authors: Bowling Ann
Published: December 2006

Historical trends encouraging the extended role of the nurse in general practice are described, and Department of Health and Social Security (DHSS) policy regarding this and the legal position of the nurse, discussed. The results of a postal questionnaire to all 192 Directors of Nursing Services (DNSs) (Community) in England are presented. The study aimed to document the extent to which nursing policies at district level had been developed to meet DHSS recommendations. Although 71% of the DNSs questioned said a policy on the extended role of the nurse had been drawn up in their districts, few met all three criteria recommended by the DHSS: specific task definition, training requirements and legal safeguards.
The use of research reports in planning continuing education for trained nurses
Authors: Clarke Margaret
Published: December 2006

The number of research studies carried out in the United Kingdom by nurses is now quite considerable. As a result there are a number of areas which have been studied by several researchers using different methods and study populations but producing convergent findings in which confidence can be placed. In this paper it is argued that as well as contributing to the content of the knowledge transmitted during study days such findings can be used in the planning of continuing education programmes for trained nurses. Research studies in the following areas were chosen: the consumer's view of continuing education; the ward sister's management role; teaching and learning in the ward; and clinical practice. Findings are discussed and ways in which use can be made of them in continuing education are suggested.
Conceptual frameworks and the nursing curriculum
Authors: Roberts Kathryn L.
Published: December 2006

In this article the author discusses the meaning of a conceptual framework in the curriculum, the advantages of a conceptual framework, the relationship of curriculum design to the conceptual framework and some types of conceptual framework used in nursing curricula. The conceptual framework in the curriculum process and the relationship of nursing theory to the conceptual framework are also discussed. This article presents some results of a survey of Australian post‐basic clinical nursing courses and a content analysis of curricula for these courses. Such curricula are often perceived as based on nursing theory but in reality most appear to be heavily orientated to the medical model.
Sisters in Dutch hospitals
Authors: van den Bergh‐Braam Anneke H.M.
Published: December 2006

This study focuses on hospital sisters in 30 Dutch hospitals. The so‐called role‐set approach has been adopted. In this approach the sisters are the focal persons. Direct superiors, specialists, registered nurses and student nurses acted as role‐senders. The possible number of respondents is 600 (120 of each group). The response of hospital sisters is 100%, that of role‐senders 88%. The study started out as an attempt to collect background information on the causes of wastage of sisters. High wastage rates are generally regarded as an indication of an unfavourable working environment. Since hospital sisters occupy a key position in hospitals, the ward problems will be studied from their angle. Although wastage rates have dropped recently, it does not necessarily follow that the working environment has improved. Wastage is known to act as a safety valve, thus allowing tensions to resolve. The threat of unemployment clogs this outlet, which increases the tensions on the hospital ward. Data from the study show that work overload is one of the major stress factors for sisters. Analyses demonstrated that there exists a relationship between work overload and tensions with the management and direct superiors, tensions in job execution, irritableness on the ward, low self‐esteem, health complaints and psychological condition. Sisters with an excessive job involvement refer to work overload more often than their moderate colleagues. There is a relationship between an unfavourable working environment and irritableness of sisters.
Loss and grief reactions as responses to surgery
Authors: Kelly Michael P.
Published: December 2006

Using autobiographical material, the patient experience of major surgery (panproctocolectomy and ileostomy) is described. A number of stages are identified in the patient experience: the development of dependence before surgery; disconnectedness from the social world immediately after surgery; and reality shock as grief and loss became apparent. The data are analysed using a theoretical perspective originally developed to describe reactions to bereavement. The practical nursing and counselling implications deriving from the theoretical model are elaborated.
Antecedents of baccalaureate student nurses' attitudes toward the elderly
Authors: Melanson Patricia M. , Downe‐Wamboldt Barbara L.
Published: December 2006

The relationship between certain psychosocial characteristics of 122 baccalaureate nursing students and their attitudes toward the elderly was determined using multiple stepwise regression. Collectively the psychosocial characteristics accounted for 11–14% of the variance in attitude scores on four of the seven attitude dimensions, specifically, realistic toughness toward the elderly, anxiety about ageing, family responsibility and unfavourable stereotyping of the elderly.
A study to determine what variables predict institutionalization of elderly people
Authors: Brock Anna M. , O'Sullivan Patricia
Published: December 2006

The purpose of this study was to determine which variables distinguish newly institutionalized elderly people from elderly people able to remain in the community. The findings suggest that old age and lack of a social support network are major predictors of institutionalization rather than health and social variables.
A baseline study for the development of an instrument for the assessment of pain
Authors: Gaston‐Johansson Fannie , Asklund‐Gustafsson Marianne
Published: December 2006

This study was designed to establish a foundation for the further development of a pain assessment tool for use in clinical practice. It was earlier reported that there existed a significant difference in the intensity of the words pain, ache and hurt and that each of these concepts had their own specific sensory and affective word descriptors. This study was designed to: 1 find out if the above results could be verified by using subjects with a different background from those included in the previous study; 2 determine the intensity of word descriptors; and 3 determine if patients, nurses and nursing students use the same word descriptors to describe pain‐like experiences. Pain assessment tools used were the McGill Pain Questionnaire, a visual analogue scale and a pain, ache and hurt questionnaire. The results of the earlier reported study were confirmed. In addition, a significant difference was found in intensity of the word descriptors. Patients, nurses and nursing students used basically the same word descriptor to describe pain‐like experiences. The sensory word descriptors (crushing, sharp, tearing, cutting, penetrating, gnawing, dull, pulling, sore, stinging, pricking and pinching) and the affective word descriptors (dreadful, torturing, killing, unbearable, terrifying, suffocating, exhausting, unhappy, troublesome, annoying, irritating and fearful) are suggested as a foundation upon which a pain assessment tool could be developed for use in clinical practice.
The feasibility of students with a predominantly arts educational background coping with the physiology component of a university nursing degree programme
Authors: Rutishauser Sigrid , Stephenson Patricia M.
Published: December 2006

In this paper the authors discuss their experiences in admitting students with an arts ‘A’ (advanced) level General Certificate of Education background to an undergraduate nursing degree course. Firstly, the implications of students’ different cognitive styles, both professionally and in teaching, are examined. Secondly, there is a description of an introductory course that has been used to assist students in the arts‐science transition. Finally, the performance of ‘arts’ students, in a physiology course over a 6‐year period is described, analysed and discussed. The proposition emerges that arts students may be disadvantaged initially by having not only a lack of knowledge in physiology, but a different cognitive style to science specialists. The results of the students’ examination performance over 6 years suggests that with the provision of only a limited amount of special help ‘arts’ students can perform as well as the ‘science’ students in physiology examinations. Other variables which may have contributed to this positive outcome are discussed.
Lifestyle counselling: the need for diagnostic clarity
Authors: Chalmers Karen , Farrell Patricia
Published: December 2006

Three approaches to changing lifestyle behaviours are hypothesized. The argument that diagnostic accuracy is essential for selection of appropriate nursing interventions is developed and illustrated with clinical examples. The diagnoses of information deficiency, information and behavioural control deficiency, and contextual awareness deficiency guide the interventions for the problem of obesity.
Ethical considerations in nursing practice
Authors: Sheehan John
Published: December 2006

Some ethical implications for nursing practice are considered in relation to three issues: competence, honesty and obedience. Factors which contribute to conformity, obedience and authoritarianism are discussed, and respect for other people is suggested as a guiding principle for ethically acceptable conduct.
Behavioural training for nurses in mental handicap: an application of the EDY course
Authors: McBrien J. A.
Published: December 2006

The role of the nurse in the care of mentally handicapped people is increasingly one of teaching and training using behavioural methods, as witnessed, for example, by the new RNMS syllabus. Methods of providing suitable training to equip staff for this changing role are discussed and it is concluded that an economic and effective method may be through locally organized in‐service training. One particular in‐service course — the education of the developmentally young course for mental handicap practitioners — is described and its applications in two health authorities in the UK are discussed.
Authority and responsibility delegation predicts quality of care
Authors: Simpson Kathleen , Sears Rita
Published: December 2006

This study, conducted in acute care hospitals, supports and expands previous findings that delegation of responsibility and authority in the nursing services hierarchy is related to known factors affecting quality pf patients care. Quality health care is imporved if staff nurses are given autonomy and care expected to function at the level of which they have been prepared
Action and reflection: practice and theory in nursing
Authors: Clarke Margaret
Published: December 2006

There are three isssues related to theory and practice in nursing which are continually problematic. These are: the separation of theory from practice; reality vs the ideal; and nursing adherence to a scientific paradigm versus nursing adherence to an arts paradigm. It is suggested that Shotter's ‘theory of personal action’ (1974, 1975) may form the basis for a resolution of these three issues. Applying Shotter's work, a nursing action may be defined as an action which is deliberately thought out and which has as its goal the benefit of the patient and client. The ‘deliberate thought and goal’ of the action which is an integral component of it then forms the basis of nursing theory which is concerned with reasons for and reflections on action. This immediately unites theory and practice as two components of nursing action. The use which could be made of the theory of personal action in nursing practice, research and theory building and nurse education is explored.
Stress and social facilitation: the effects of the presence of an instructor on student nurses’ behaviour
Authors: Kushnir T.
Published: December 2006

This paper analyses, in terms of social facilitation and stress theories, some of the effects of the presence and actions of instructors on student nurses’ behaviour. The theories imply the existence of a paradox in the training of nurses. The aim of teaching is to reduce errors. Much of the training is done in the presence of instructors and patients. However, the presence of significant others during learning is hypothesized to increase errors, due to fear of failure and embarrassment. Indeed, the analysis of students’ self‐reports describing stressful encounters with instructors indicates that the students tended to perceive the instructors as mainly evaluative. One possible solution to this paradox is to distinguish clearly between the instructive and evaluative roles, to de‐emphasize evaluation, especially during learning, thus (a) reducing potential sources of anxiety and (b) creating a more supportive learning atmosphere. It is also suggested that both instructors and students may benefit from stress‐reduction strategies, such as relaxation training and improved communication.
Breast feeding, fertility and child health: a review of international issues
Authors: Houston Mary J.
Published: December 2006

Breast feeding is of central importance to child survival, growth and development, especially in non‐industrialized countries. It also protects the mother against further pregnancy. In the light of the increase in the world's population, the implications of the decrease in breast feeding worldwide are serious. There is a direct association between child health and survival and breast feeding. In this paper, the contraceptive effect of breast feeding is reviewed. The emphasis is on families in non‐industrialized societies. The importance of suckling frequency and duration, and the timing of introduction of supplementary foods to the baby, are discussed. Limitations of the method, and recommendations to maximize its effectiveness, are given. It is noted that protection of breast feeding both as a means of improving child health and of spacing births will require positive action at local and at governmental levels.
The elderly coping at home: a study of continuity of nursing care
Authors: King Floris E. , Figge Judy , Harman Patricia
Published: December 2006

Thirty‐three elderly clients who had been hospitalized and required continued care at home were studied for 3 months, with 836 visits made. Coping at home was studied in relationship to their certainty/uncertainty scores, perceived level of health, and perceived satisfaction with nursing care services. The relationship between coping and certainty/uncertainty was significant at P < 0.001 and P < 0.005 (first and second visits); the relationship between coping and perceived level of health was significant at P < 0.001 and P < 0.05 (first and second visits); and the relationship between coping and perception of care was not significant. This study presents significant data to contribute to nursing knowledge in the care of elderly people at home.
Appropriate use of drugs by elderly people
Authors: Wade Barbara , Bowling Ann
Published: December 2006

The effectiveness and safety of prescribed medication theoretically depends on the patient correctly following the prescriber's instructions. However, patient compliance is often difficult to achieve. This paper discusses reasons for this in relation to elderly people, and attempts to remedy the situation are reviewed.
Spouse burnout syndrome
Authors: Ekberg Jeanette Y. , Griffith Nancy , Foxall Martha J.
Published: December 2006

In married couples, chronic illness in one partner can result in increased responsibilities for the spouse and lead to spouse burnout. Burnout has been described as a syndrome encompassing both physical and emotional symptoms. The literature has addressed the burnout syndrome experienced by health care professionals but few articles have addressed burnout in spouses of chronically ill persons. During a preliminary study of 30 chronically ill persons and their spouses, the following two questions were raised: (1) Were the manifestations of the spouses similar to the indications of burnout exhibited by health professionals? and (2) What factors in the home where one member was chronically ill contributed to the spouse's burnout? The three stages of burnout were examined. The emotional and physical symptoms of burnout in the first and second stages were very similar to symptoms identified in the spouses of our preliminary study. The spouses in our study did not exhibit signs or symptoms of the third stage. Three home situations were extrapolated from the study group in order to examine in depth specific examples of spouse burnout. Nurses have a responsibility to care for the spouse caregiver as well as the patient. The nurse must recognize behaviour which may be indicative of burnout syndrome. With this knowledge, the nurse is then better prepared to assist the spouse in prevention and/or early recognition and plan interventions accordingly.
Professional and lay social support for hysterectomy patients
Authors: Webb Christine
Published: December 2006

This paper describes a study of social support for women undergoing hysterectomy, and shows how original research plans had to be modified when early interviews revealed women's need for basic information and their desire lo obtain this from the researcher. The modified design allowed comparisons between one group of women receiving information as part of the research interview and a second group receiving no such help. Post‐hysterectomy follow‐up at 3 months showed significant differences between the 2 groups, with the ‘information group’ being less hostile but more critical of their hospital treatment. The study also confirms previous findings by the same author of generally high levels of satisfaction, health and resumption of activities after hysterectomy. With regard to social support, it is suggested that full‐time housewives are in particular need of support from nurses due to their relative isolation from other sources of support and information. However, all interviewees would have liked more information and support from health care professionals. Despite the acknowledged limitations of the study, some guidelines are offered for nurses attempting to increase levels of lay and professional support for their patients.
A comparative analysis of nurse and physician characters in the entertainment media
Authors: Kalisch Philip A. , Kalisch Beatrice J.
Published: December 2006

The results of a large body of research have yielded findings supportive of the view that the mass media have a decisive effect on the formation of public attitudes and behaviours. This study reports the results of a content analysis of 670 nurse and 466 physician characters portrayed in novels, motion pictures and prime‐time television series, published or produced from 1920 to 1980. When compared with media physicians, media nurses were consistently found to be less central to the plot, less intelligent, rational, and individualistic, less likely to value scholarliness and achievement and exercise clinical judgement. Moreover, in television series nurse characters were depicted as valuing service to others and being helpful to patients less, and as being lower in nurturance and empathy than physician characters. An analysis of these data over time points to a steady and unmistakable decline in the mass media entertainment image of nurses while physician characters have remained consistently high or shown improvement. The implications of this image gap are discussed along with the need for image reshaping efforts which might direct public demand for more collegial and productive ‘real world’ nurse‐physician roles and interprofessional relationships.
Nursing research, nursing theory and the nursing process
Authors: Aggleton Peter
Published: December 2006

In recent years, practising nurses and nurse theorists have shown interest in the development of conceptual models of nursing and nursing theory. As yet, however, there exists little agreement concerning the most appropriate methodologies to be employed in such an exercise. This paper identifies a number of strategies which might usefully be adopted for this purpose. In particular, it distinguishes between inductive and hypothetico‐deductive approaches to the development of nursing theory. It further attempts a clarification of the relationship between conceptual models of nursing and theories of nursing, and explores the use of the nursing process as a research technique which combines both inductive and hypothetico‐deductive commitments. Finally, it argues that the systematic use of the nursing process may identify a set of research procedures with the potential to facilitate the development of nursing theory using insights from both the direct experience of practising nurses and from existing conceptual models of nursing.
Nurses as a social force*
Authors: Labelle Huguette
Published: December 2006

Nurses in every continent engage in social action. This, the author argues, has been a fact throughout the ages. The major social issues which contribute to health today are economic, energy, environmental and social welfare problems. Other major issues affecting health are population growth, poverty, education, clean water supply, and family planning. The author shows how individual nurses and nurses’ associations can, and should, exercise their influence and power in promoting health at local, national and international levels, making primary health care a priority. By using their levers of power, together with technology and communications, nurses can help create a new world health order, the author concludes.
The nurse as advocate for vulnerable persons
Authors: Archer Laurel
Published: December 2006

This paper discusses the following issues. (1) Advocacy: in planning and implementing nursing care; in primary care; in terminal care; in nursing research; and in health promotion/disease prevention. (2) That which comprises a vulnerable population. (3) Continuum of vulnerability: the potentially vulnerable; the circumstantially vulnerable; the temporarily vulnerable; the episodically vulnerable; the permanently vulnerable; and the inevitably vulnerable. (4) Damaging one's humanity and self‐image: loss of independence; barriers to the ability to make choices; the absences and presence of that which is needed; and the loss of individuality. (5) Types of advocacy: human advocacy; animal advocacy; political advocacy; moral‐ethical advocacy; legal advocacy; spiritual advocacy; and individual system advocacy. (6) Advocacy concommitants: risk; heat; and prevention.
Interpersonal support amongst nurses at work
Authors: Firth Hugh , McIntee Jean , McKeown Paul , Britton Peter
Published: December 2006

The needs for support of staff in human services work are often stated, but less often is the nature of such support clearly specified. This study attempts to clarify the nature of effective support from a superior, as perceived by qualified nursing staff working in psychiatric, mental handicap and medical settings. ‘Personal respect’, ‘empathic attention’ and ‘absence of interpersonal defensiveness’ appeared to be important components to such support. Staff on the same ward showed a high degree of agreement in judgements of their superior's personal respect and empathic attention, but perceived interpersonal defensiveness appeared more specific to perceptions or interactions between particular staff. Greater degrees of ‘personal respect’ experienced by staff were associated with reduced role ambiguity and reduced emotional exhaustion (‘burnout’). The empathic attention reported as given by ward charge nurses was highly correlated with the personal respect they reported receiving from their own superior. These results support approaches which see respect, empathy and genuineness as important ingredients in helping relationships.
The previous training and present training needs of nurses in charge of alcohol treatment units and community alcohol teams
Authors: Kennedy James
Published: December 2006

The aim of the study was to collect information on the educational needs of nurses in charge of alcohol treatment units and community alcohol teams. The sample of all such nurses in England and Wales was asked to complete a postal questionnaire and give information on the training and education they had already received, what further training they needed and brief details about their background and future plans. It was expected that a small proportion of the respondents would have had specialized training and this expectation was borne out. The results do provide evidence of considerable dissatisfaction amongst the group as to the training they receive. It is shown that these nurses wish to develop behavioural and psychotherapeutic skills and that training provided so far has not met these needs. Suggestions are made as to the content of future training events for nurses.
Long‐term catheter management: minimizing the problem of premature replacement due to balloon deflation
Authors: Elizabeth Barnes K. , Malone‐Lee James
Published: December 2006

Balloon deflation in long‐term indwelling urinary catheters has been reported, and can necessitate a premature replacement of the catheter. This problem is studied in catheters of various materials and their performance in this respect compared. The catheters are also compared in terms of any change in effective shaft diameter. The results show that 100% silicone catheters perform significantly less well than silicone‐coated latex ones on both parameters. The implications of these findings are discussed, and recommendations are made with regard to the selection of catheters for long‐term use.
Social class, underprivileged areas and psychiatric disorder in the city of Stoke‐on‐Trent
Authors: Platt C.
Published: December 2006

A survey of psychiatric disorder, bused on hospital inpatients records, was conducted in ihe City of Stoke‐on‐Trent, England for the year 1983. This was used to test ihe hypothesis that areas of lower social class and greatest underprivilege would display higher rates of inpatient admissions for psychiatric disorder than the more privileged areas of the city. The results confirmed a significant positive correlation between extent of underprivilege of an area and rates of inpatient admissions. The link between lower social class and mental disorder was not directly demonstrated.
Nursing students’ perceptions of a child: influence of information on family structure
Authors: Siebert Katherine Dolan , Ganong Lawrence H. , Hagemann Virginia , Coleman Marilyn
Published: December 2006

Sixty‐eight undergraduate nursing students from a large university in the mid‐western United States volunteered to participate in a study to determine nursing students’ perceptions of a preschool‐aged child when information about his family structure was presented. Subjects viewed a videotape of a 4‐year‐old male. Half of the subjects received written information that the child was from a two‐parent family; the other half received written information that the child was a member of a single‐parent family. Two instruments, the First Impressions Semantic Differential and the Predicted Behaviour of a Hospitalized Child Questionnaire, and a demographic data sheet, were completed by each subject. In general, a child believed to be from a two‐parent family tended to be perceived more positively than a child believed to be from a single‐parent family structure. However, when viewed as a potential patient on a hospital unit, no significant differences in perceived behaviours were reported.
Nursing the aged with brain failure
Authors: Bergman Rebecca
Published: December 2006

Nurses are the major caregivers for the aged with brain failure. The patients’ needs and resources must be continually reassessed and care adjusted to the changing situation whether the patient is at home, attending a community ambulatory clinic, or in a hospital or a long‐term institution. The nursing role includes humanistic concern, physical care, scientific/technological interventions, organization of care and contributing to the limited body of knowledge. The most complex area of care of brain‐failure patients is communication, which has an important impact on both psychosocial and physical well‐being. Often neglected aspects of care are ambulation and regulating body temperature. Nurses can make maximum use of resources through good organization of the environment. The nurse must continually update her knowledge and use a problem‐solving approach in her work. She should record, analyse and share her experiences with others, thus helping to develop more humanistic and scientific modes of care.
The influence of elderly patients’ mental impairment on nurse‐patient interaction
Authors: Armstrong‐Esther C. A. , Browne K. D.
Published: December 2006

The study investigates nurse‐patient interaction on a geriatric ward. The Clifton Assessment Procedure for the Elderly was used to measure cognitive and behavioural functioning and the 23 subjects studied were divided into three groups: (1) lucid; (2) slightly confused; and (3) confused or demented. Information relating to the subjects’ activities and interactions with nursing staff was gained from time sampling by direct observation. One hundred and eighteen nurses also completed a questionnaire to elicit their priorities in care. The results reveal very low levels of staff‐patient communication. Nurses interact significantly less with confused than lucid patients. Patients spent only 9.7% of observed time in self‐care activities, and 5.9% eating and drinking: the remaining time they were inactive. Nursing staff, however, regarded their care priority as physical care rather than psychosocial interaction or restorative activities.
The significance of secondary school education for education and training of nurses in South Africa
Authors: Mashaba T. G.
Published: December 2006

This paper examines current basic nursing education in South Africa and suggests that problems in the secondary school education of Black recruits affect their later training potential as professional nurses. It reports the move towards the transfer of nurse training into higher education from 1986 in South Africa. Black nurses’ learning and studying difficulties are considered in the light of their high failure rate in the South African Nursing Council qualifying examinations. It is agreed that in order to prepare the high number of qualified Black nurses required by South Africa within the tertiary education sector from 1986, special attention would need to be paid to secondary education provision for Blacks.
Comparison of two theorists on care: Orem and Leininger
Authors: Rosenbaum Janet N.
Published: December 2006

Dorothea Orem and Madeleine Leininger are two nursing scholars who are contributing significantly to the body of nursing knowledge. This paper contrasts their backgrounds, the origins of their theories, their views of the nature of nursing, use of theory deveiopment strategies, and contributions to nursing science. The concepts of Leininger's care and Orem's self‐care will be compared as these relate to their theories with the examination of similarities and differences.
An introduction to the use of repertory grid technique as a research method and clinical tool for psychiatric nurses*
Authors: Pollock Linda C.
Published: December 2006

This paper outlines a technique, the repertory grid technique, which offers the opportunity for psychiatric nurses to document information gained in an interview setting. The method, which consists of structured and systematic questioning, allows exploration of individual's systems of meanings. Data collection is separated from inference, hence the criticism that the nursing data is impressionistic and opinionated is avoided. The controlled conversational format of the technique provides an enhanced awareness of receiving information and interpreting it, and the primary data is clearly presented and available for discussion about conclusions. These data can be subjected to qualitative and quantitative analysis and the method is to be recommended as a research technique which could be of value to psychiatric nurses at the clinical level.
Sleep in hospital
Authors: BSc Rosemary A. Webster , Thompson David R.
Published: December 2006

Although sleep has been identified as an activity generally considered necessary for normal functioning, the nursing literature on the subject is relatively scanty. This paper is an attempt to review sleep and its relationship to nursing practice. A discussion of nursing interventions that are likely to ensure that adequate sleep is maintained is included.
Neurofibromatosis: relinquishing the masks; a quest for quality of life
Authors: Messner Roberta , Smith Martha Neff
Published: December 2006

Neurofibromatosis (NF) or von Recklinghausen's disease is mankind's most common neurologic genetic disorder, occurring in one of every 3000 live births. While many individuals with NF suffer disfiguring, disabling, or life‐threatening complications, NF is extremely variable in its symptoms, intensity, and progression. For many of its victims, NF is a pseudonym for uncertainty and physical and psychosocial havoc. John Merrick, ‘The Elephant Man’, endured one of the most severe cases of NF ever recorded. Merrick's rejection by post‐Dickensian England forced him to become a sideshow circus attraction just to survive. The essence of nursing intervention with NF patients and their families engaged in the quest for quality of life is to restore them to optimal physical and psychosocial functioning, and, ideally, to help them utilize the experience for growth. Many individuals respond to the frustration of NF and society's reactions to the disorder by the wearing of psychological masks. Likewise, nurses may wear emotional masks as a defence against their own discomfort and fears concerning the disorder. Comprehensive nursing management of NF is realized only as nurses and patients relinquish their respective masks. This article examines the nurse's role in genetic disorders with special considerations presented by NF. Adaptation to NF involves coping with NF and its accompanying sequelae and coping with life as it is affected by NF. The concepts of ‘chromosomal coping’, ‘genetophobia’, ‘genetic guilt, and ‘genetic overload syndrome’ are presented and analyzed utilizing the theoretical nursing frameworks of Imogene King and Sister Callista Roy.
Early identification of infants at risk for institutional care
Authors: Bohlin Ann‐Britt , Larsson Gunilla
Published: December 2006

The neonatal health and family situation of infants admitted for institutional care were evaluated retrospectively. Based on the criteria for admission they were classified into four groups: handicapped infants; infants of mothers with psychiatric illness or mental retardation; infants of alcoholic or drug‐addicted mothers; and infants of mothers with various social dysfunctions. Mentally disturbed and addicted mothers were to a large extent multiparae. One‐fourth of them already ad children in foster care. The mentally disturbed mothers had a raised frequency of pregnancy and delivery complications. Compared to the general population, the gestational age and birth weight were significantly lower in all groups, and the number of preterm babies was twice as high. The majority of infants at risk for parental failure due to mental disturbance or addiction can be identified in the maternity ward. Deficient maternal behaviour in the maternity ward and the occurrence of previous children in foster care are important risk factors in predicting maternal incapability for parenting.
How nurse therapists assess and contribute to the management of alcoholand sedative drug use among anxious patients
Authors: Tilley Stephen , Weighill V. E.
Published: December 2006

Fourteen nurse therapists completed self‐administered questionnaires ontheir assessment of and input to management of alcohol and sedative drug use among 110 anxious patients referred to them for behaviour therapy. Information on use and on case management is summarized. The therapists play an active, extended role in assessing, communicating about and in some cases advising on reduction of these substances. Policies on use in the context of behaviour therapy are formed in training, and implications for training and the need for awareness of the relevant literature are discussed.
Re‐inventing the wheel: a case study of nursing curriculum innovation
Authors: Prosser Sylvia M.
Published: December 2006

This paper reviews the literature concerned with active learning methods in British nurse education. A case study is presented describing the introduction of assisted independent learning to a cohort of student nurses in a district general hospital school of nursing in England. The implications, advantages and problems associated with such curriculum innovation are discussed and some areas for further study are identified.