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Aim: The aim of this study is to analyse the risk factors for unplanned readmissions within 1 month after hospital discharge to develop a seamless support system from discharge to home care. Background: With shorter hospital stay lengths, understanding the characteristics of patients with multiple risk factors is important to prevent rehospitalization. Design: This is a single‐centre retrospective descriptive study. Methods: Logistic regression and decision tree analyses were performed using eight items from the records of 3117 patients discharged from a university hospital between April–September 2017 as risk factors. Results: Unplanned readmission risk was significantly associated with emergency hospitalization (odds ratio [OR]: 3.12, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.04–4.77), malignancy (OR: 2.16, 95% CI: 1.44–3.24), non‐surgical admission (OR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.07–2.88), hospital stay of ≥ 15 days (OR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.14–2.43) and decline in activities of daily living owing to hospitalization (OR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.06–2.64). The highest risk combinations for rehospitalization were as follows: emergency hospitalization and malignancy; emergency admission, non‐malignancy and a hospital stay of ≥15 days; and scheduled hospitalization, no surgery and a hospital stay of ≥15 days. Conclusions: Patients with multiple risks for unplanned readmission should be accurately screened and provided with optimal home care. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Although the characteristics of patients at high risk of rehospitalization include malignancy, heart failure, conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other diseases prone to recurrence, old age, reduced activities of daily living and emergency hospitalization, few studies have reported on cases with multiple risks. What this paper adds? The most frequent risk types for unplanned readmissions within a month were emergency admissions for malignant tumours, emergency admissions for non‐malignant tumours with a hospital stay of 2 weeks or more and scheduled admissions for non‐surgical purposes with a length of stay of 2 weeks or more. The implications of this paper: The risk of unplanned readmission within 1 month of discharge increased due to a combination of multiple risks.This study helps us identify patients who are at high risk for readmission early in the hospitalization process and in providing nursing support for transition to their homes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is growing evidence that sex and onset age are important factors of clinical features in Parkinson's disease. Aim: The study aimed to identify nonmotor symptoms based on sex and onset age in people with Parkinson's disease. Design: This is a cross‐sectional descriptive study. Methods: A total of 210 participants were recruited from the university hospital and the Parkinson's disease association. This study measured the Korean version of the nonmotor symptoms questionnaire which includes gastrointestinal, urinary, apathy/attention/memory, hallucination/delusions, depression/anxiety, sexual function, cardiovascular, sleep disorder, and miscellaneous domains. Results: All participants reported at least one nonmotor symptom. The most commonly reported symptoms were nocturia (65.7%) and constipation (61.9%). The male participants reported more dribbling of saliva, constipation, and impaired sexual function, whereas the female reported more weight change. Young‐onset people with Parkinson's disease reported more depression than late‐onset people with Parkinson's disease. Conclusion: This study contributes to the understanding of symptom experience beyond motor‐related symptomatology for those with Parkinson's disease and adds to the current literature. Individualized symptom assessment and management should be provided by prioritizing prevalent sex or onset age‐specific symptoms, rather than addressing with all nonmotor symptoms. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Most people with Parkinson's disease experience nonmotor symptoms including autonomic nervous symptoms as the disease progresses.Nonmotor symptoms can affect quality of life of people with Parkinson's disease, but related factors are not fully understood. What this paper adds? This paper identified the presentations of nonmotor symptoms in people with Parkinson's disease based on sex and onset age. The implications of this paper: Nurses enable people with Parkinson's disease to actively engage in self‐care of their own symptoms by educating Parkinson's disease related and how to cope with the symptoms in advance.Individualized nursing care reflecting the disease characteristics is needed to improve patient engagement in symptom management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to develop a model to help parents cope with decisional conflict. Background: Parents of children with congenital heart defect experience decisional conflict when they are uncertain about treatment decisions for their child, which may lead to delay in seeking care or distress over the decision made. Design: Correlational design with model building and data triangulation was used. Methods: Data were collected through surveys and interviews with a consecutive sample of 221 parent respondents from June to December 2018. Structural equation modelling and qualitative data analysis were used. Results: Lower decisional conflict was seen in parents with higher income, more nurse support and physician risk communication. Time delay for surgery was correlated with the child's age, social service coverage, and social support. Decisional conflict mediated the influence of income, nurse support and physician risk communication on satisfaction with decision. Based on model fit parameters, the emerging model is a good and parsimonious model of decisional conflict. The overall theme, 'Deciding for Surgery: What Matters Most', described the processes parents went through in making treatment decisions. Conclusion: Nurses may help parents feel more certain, less conflicted, and more satisfied with their decision by addressing factors including knowledge gaps, personal values, available support, and resource access. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Decisional conflict occurs when parents are uncertain of the best action for their child because treatment options entail risks for undesirable outcomes, value compromise, unclear prognosis, or anticipated regret over the decision.Professional support, information, and communication are vital to parents' decision‐making process.Child, parent, and support factors may influence parent treatment decisions in varied paediatric conditions. What this paper adds? Child's age at the time of decision‐making had an effect on the delay in surgery. However, assisting parents to weigh their options and focus on personal values allowed them to make their treatment decision.Low income, costly health services, and bureaucratic processes impeded the timely availment of surgery. Healthcare reforms that provide a system of government funding, streamlined health structure, and social insurance may be looked into.Family support weighed in on the parents' decision to delay surgery for fear of blame or guilt. Providing relevant information enabled parents to make a choice and stand by their decision regardless of the outcome. The implications of this paper: Modelling provides a framework to identify which factors are more important and how they interact to affect decision‐making. It may be used as an approach to find solutions to clinical problems for groups with different diagnoses.Though nursing support, information, and communication are essential, a more holistic family nursing care approach may be considered to assist parents to make appropriate treatment decisions for their child.Familiarity with the healthcare system may equip nurses to aid parents in processing available healthcare funding and dealing with financial uncertainty affecting decisions for their child's treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to test the effect of Otago exercises on fear of falling, balance, empowerment and functional mobility in older people living in nursing homes. Methods: This study is a parallel‐group randomized controlled trial. In total, 56 individuals were stratified randomized according to age‐gender. Participants were recruited from September 2021 to August 2022. Data were collected at baseline, in the 8th and 12th weeks. The researcher gave Otago exercise training to the intervention group three times per week for the first 4 weeks and applied it to the individuals, and in the next 8 weeks, the researcher visited the institution to ensure the continuity of the exercises and contacted the individuals by phone. Friedman test and generalized linear model were used in the analysis of data. Results: In the study, group and time interaction were found to be significant in terms of the Berg balance scale, 30‐second sit‐and‐stand test, elderly empowerment scale and timed up‐and‐go test. It was determined that the intervention did not improve fear of falling, upper extremity strength and 6‐min walk test results. Conclusion: Health personnel and administrators should have increased awareness about Otago exercises and can recommend implementation of the programme. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Otago exercises are an evidence‐based, home‐based programme for improving balance.What this paper adds? Otago exercises can improve the balance, lower‐extremity strength, elderly empowerment score and timed up‐go test score of older people living in nursing homes.The Otago exercise programme did not improve the fear of falling, the strength of the upper extremities and the 6‐min walk test results for older people living in nursing homes.The implications of this paper: Health personnel and administrators should be aware of the potential benefits of Otago exercises and can recommend implementation of the programme.Nurses working in nursing homes can be taught how to deliver the programme and to plan training to roll out the programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to adapt the Nurse Turnover Intention Scale to Turkish and test its validity and reliability. Methods: This methodological study was conducted with 200 nurses. The Personal Information Form and the Nurse Turnover Intention Scale were used for data collection between November and December 2021. Language and content validity, explanatory and confirmatory factor analysis, criterion validity, Cronbach's alpha coefficient, item–total score correlation and test–retest reliability methods were used for the validity and reliability analysis of the scale. Results: Exploratory factor analysis showed that the Nurse Turnover Intention Scale had a single factor. Its single factor structure was confirmed using confirmatory factor analysis. Cronbach's alpha coefficient of the scale was 0.902, and factor loading was between 0.60 and 0.78. Statistical analyses indicated that each item in the Turkish version of the scale had a high internal consistency. The test–retest correlation value was found as p < 0.05. Conclusion: The Nurse Turnover Intention Scale has been confirmed to be a suitable, valid and reliable measurement tool for Turkish society. Nurse turnover intention is the most powerful predictor of actual turnover within the nursing profession. This scale will help to easily attain valid and reliable outcomes. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Nursing is a profession with a high rate of turnover intention.Nurse turnover intention is the most powerful predictor of actual turnover.There is no measurement tool in Turkey to evaluate the turnover intention specific to nurses. What this paper adds? The revised structure that was developed in this study comprised of 10 items was found to be appropriate, valid and reliable for the Turkish nursing population.Nurse turnover intention can now be measured using a valid and reliable tool. The implications of this paper: By using this scale, nursing services can contribute to the determination of the turnover intention levels of nurses and their reasons to take necessary precautions in the institution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To examine the relationships between self‐efficacy, uncertainty and anxiety among nursing graduates waiting for a mandatory nursing licensing test that was postponed due to the COVID‐19 pandemic. Methods: A total of 352 graduates of nursing education programs participated in this mixed‐methods study. The data were collected using an online questionnaire in June 2020. Results: The participants demonstrated high uncertainty and anxiety and low self‐efficacy towards the ability to succeed in the licensing exam. Graduates, who started working, reported lower uncertainty. Self‐efficacy, uncertainty, gender and family status contributed significantly to the explanation of 24% of the variance of the anxiety. The qualitative analysis revealed three themes: (a) emotional distress, cognitive challenge and social implications, (b) consequences for significant others and (c) strengthening of professional values and norms. Conclusions: A significant crisis like a pandemic is accompanied by acute cognitive burden and stressful emotional experiences and creates an unconventional situation that requires unusual solutions. Granting a temporary permit for employment as a nurse following the postponement of a licensing test contributed to the ability of nursing graduates to cope with the situation. Policies to deal with similar situations in the future emergencies should be developed and implemented. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? The COVID‐19 pandemic changed all the rules when the licensing examination was postponed at relatively short notice.The graduates found themselves without a work permit and also outside the education system.Many graduates reported economic challenges and feelings of uncertainty and fear of the future. What this paper adds? The participants demonstrated high levels of uncertainty and anxiety, with low self‐efficacy.Self‐efficacy, uncertainty, gender and family status contributed significantly to the explanation of the anxietyQualitative analysis supported these findings through examples that paint the whole picture in vivid colours. The implications of this paper: The study emphasizes the importance of providing emotional support and information to the students in times of crisis, while communicating policy decisions.Granting a temporary permit for employment as a registered nurse following the postponement of the licensing test contributed to the ability of nursing graduates to contend with the situation.There is a need to formulate policies to deal with similar situations in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aims to explore the relationship between regular exercise, social support and depression in community‐dwelling older people and find out the predictors of depression. Methods: Cross‐sectional and correlation designs were used. The participants were recruited from August to October in 2020. The STROBE was used as a checklist for this study. Results: The study found that female gender, older age, poor sleep quality, irregular exercise and low social support were the main predictors of depression among the community‐dwelling older people. Conclusion: It is suggested that healthcare professionals motivate the older people to exercise regularly in the community using individualized exercise routines designed according to their physical conditions such as different types, frequencies and intensity of exercise. Providing social support to each other at the community care site should be encouraged, and regular assessment of the mental health of community‐dwelling older people should be done. It is also recommended to organize a timely depression‐related education course for older people in the community. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? In older people depression can lead to further physical and psychological problems. What this paper adds? This study provides information about regular exercise, social support and depression in community‐dwelling older people.Female gender, older age, poor sleep quality, irregular exercise and low social support were the main predictors of depression among these community‐dwelling older people. The implications of this paper for policy/practice/research/education It is suggested that healthcare professionalss motivate older people to exercise regularly in the community care site using individualized exercise routines designed according to their physical condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between family caregivers' health‐related quality of life and health outcomes in care recipients. Methods: A total of 160 female caregivers in Japan were initially assessed using self‐reported baseline questionnaires to determine physical and mental aspects of their health‐related quality of life. Based on these scores, they were divided into three groups: lower, middle, and higher quality of life. We followed up with the 133 participants (after excluding those that did not respond) 6 years later to assess the health of their care recipients; 36 caregivers continued to provide home care, while 97 reported that their care recipient had died or been admitted into institutionalized care. Results: Statistically, a higher risk for care recipients' health deterioration was strongly associated with the mental component score in the lower caregivers' quality of life group of than for the middle group, after adjusting for the care recipients' age, health status, and caregivers' age at baseline. There was no significant association between deterioration of health of care recipients and physical component scores of the caregivers. Conclusion: Caregivers' poor health‐related quality of life, particularly poor mental health, may be linked to the deterioration of care recipients' health. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Family caregivers reportedly have lower quality of life than noncaregivers.While factors associated with decreased quality of life of caregivers such as high caregiving burden and longer care duration are being identified, they remain difficult to prevent.Lower caregiver quality of life may negatively influence the care recipients. What this paper adds? Poor mental health in caregivers, calculated with health‐related quality of life scores, is associated with health deterioration of care recipients.Physical health in caregivers is not associated with health deterioration of care recipients. The implications of this paper: Support for improving the health‐related quality of life of caregivers is necessary, especially in relation to their mental health, from the viewpoint of maintaining the health status of care recipients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the distribution of foot conditions, the risk of foot ulceration and its associated factors in patients with diabetes. Few studies have focused on the risk of foot ulceration in patients with diabetes. Methods: A total of 267 patients with diabetes who attended outpatient clinics in two tertiary referral hospitals were recruited from June to September 2016. The risk of foot ulceration was classified using the American Diabetes Association (ADA), International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) and Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) classification systems. The risk categories of each system were reclassified into high‐ (categories of 2 and 3 for the ADA and IWGDF systems and high for the SIGN system) and low‐risk. Results: Foot deformity was the most prevalent condition (38.2%). Among 261 patients without active ulcers, between 17.6% to 35.2% were classified in the high‐risk group and overall agreement among systems ranged from.42 to.56 of the kappa statistic. Insulin treatment was consistently associated with a high‐risk of foot ulceration. Conclusions: As the risk varies between systems, nurses should select a suitable classification system through validation studies and assess the risk in patients with diabetes, particularly, those receiving insulin treatment. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Foot ulceration is a major complication of diabetes and may cause serious health issues, adversely affecting the patient's quality of life.Although risk assessment of foot ulceration in patients with diabetes is regarded as a critical preventive measure, implementation of diabetic foot examinations by health‐care providers varies among countries.Only 6.1% of patients with diabetes have received a foot examination in the last 2 years in South Korea, and there are few studies on the distribution of risk factors for diabetic foot ulceration. What this paper adds? Among participants, 73.4% had at least one foot condition and between 17.6% to 35.2% of patients were classified in the high‐risk group, depending on the system.Overall agreement among systems ranged from.42 to.56 of the kappa statistic.Participants with diabetes on insulin treatment were found to be at a higher risk of foot ulceration. The implications of this paper: As the risk of foot ulceration varies between international systems, nurses need to select the most suitable one through validation studies.Although the prevalence of active foot ulcers is very low, two to four of every 10 patients with type 2 diabetes attending outpatient clinics in tertiary referral hospitals in South Korea are at high‐risk for foot ulceration. Therefore, nurses should regularly assess the risk of foot ulceration, particularly in high‐risk patients, such as those receiving insulin treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate psychosocial, demographic and obstetric factors that affect health practices in pregnancy. Methods: This cross‐sectional study was conducted with pregnant women selected by using random sampling in a public hospital in Turkey. The pregnant women (n = 383) completed the Health Practices Questionnaire in Pregnancy, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, the Beck Anxiety Inventory and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. Multiple linear regression was used to examine predictors of participation in health practices. The variables were subjected to multiple linear regression analysis to estimate the effect of each independent variable (depression, anxiety, perceived social support, age, educational level, gestational week and parity) on the dependent variable (health practices). Results: Depression and anxiety were not significantly related to gestational health practices. The multiple linear regression model showed that inadequate social support, low education level, early gestational week and high parity were significant predictors of nonengagement in favourable health practices during pregnancy. Conclusions: Pregnant women with inadequate social support and specific demographic and obstetric characteristics are less likely to participate in gestational health practices. This study suggests that more attention should be paid to these groups to improve the health practices of pregnant women. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? There are significant effects of health practices in pregnancy on maternal, fetal and newborn health.Some maternal factors may be associated with adverse health practices. What this paper adds? Social support was a significant predictor of gestational health practices.Low education level, early gestational week and high parity were predictors of nonengagement in favourable health practices during pregnancy.Depression and anxiety were not significantly related to gestational health practices. The implications of this paper: Health‐care professionals should be aware of psychological factors related to gestational health practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of International Journal of Nursing Practice (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.) is the property of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of International Journal of Nursing Practice (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.) is the property of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose During the survival period of breast cancer patients, an understanding of and ability to implement health knowledge may be important for survivors' physical and mental quality of life (QOL). This study aims to investigate the health literacy and predictors of QOL for survivors of breast cancer. Method: A cross‐sectional design was used, and convenience sampling was performed. Eighty‐six survivors with breast cancer were recruited from a general hospital in northern Taiwan from February to August 2017. Taiwan's health literacy scale and SF‐12 questionnaire were used for data collection. Results: The average health literacy score was 3.28. Education level and breast cancer stage were significant factors for the health literacy of survivors with breast cancer. Age, body mass index and health literacy were predictors of physical health‐related QOL. Health literacy also was a predictor of mental health‐related QOL. Conclusion: The results provide the factors associated health literacy as well as health‐related QOL. Nurses should understand the health literacy among survivors with breast cancer and improve health literacy to optimize their quality of life. SUMMARY STATEMENT: What is already known about this topic? Individuals with lower health literacy generally had fewer communications with medical personnel regarding their own risk of disease.Individuals with higher health literacy tend to have better social‐related QOL. What this paper adds? Survivors with early‐stage breast cancer tended to be younger (aged 60 years or less) had normal body mass index, continued working, had no other illnesses and better physical health.Survivors with normal body mass index who had not received chemotherapy had better mental health.Health literacy was the main predictor and accounted for 20% of the variance in physical health and for 18.8% of the variance in mental health. Implications of this paper: Nurses should understand the importance of health literacy, which is a key factor to improve QOL for survivors with breast cancer.Nurses should develop individualized care plans for survivors based on different levels of health literacy to improve the efficiency of the nurse–patient dialogue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aimed to investigate illness perceptions and their predictors among Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods: A descriptive, correlational, and exploratory design was used. The Chinese version of the Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire was modified and used to collect data between September 2016 and February 2017. Results: On average, patients recognized fewer than five of the 14 common symptoms of type 2 diabetes. Of the six causal factors, "dietary behaviours" had the highest mean score, while "psychological factors" had the lowest score. Most patients lacked understanding of type 2 diabetes mellitus. They perceived it as a chronic and stable illness, without negative affective response, and controllable by themselves and through treatment. Gender, age, marital status, educational level, family income, employment status, diabetes duration, diabetes‐related complications, comorbid conditions, number of hospital admissions, and the level of haemoglobin A1c were predictors of illness perceptions. Conclusions: The findings of the present study suggest that the illness perceptions of Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes should be improved. This evidence may enrich the theoretical understanding of illness perceptions and be used to develop interventions for enhancing illness perceptions in such patients. SUMMARY STATEMENT: What is already known about this topic? Diabetes has become a global epidemic and poses a major risk in terms of morbidity and mortality.Illness perceptions significantly influence the lifestyle and behavioural choices of individuals; this concept has been employed as part of an effective mechanism to improve behavioural change and health outcomes.Few studies have examined illness perceptions among Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. What this paper adds? Of the 14 common symptoms of type 2 diabetes, Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes recognized fewer than five, on average.The patients lacked understanding of their illness, frequently believing that smoking was not related to their illness.Socio‐demographic factors (including gender, age, marital status, educational level, family income, and employment status) and clinical factors (including diabetes duration, diabetes‐related complications, comorbid conditions, number of hospital admissions, and level of haemoglobin A1c) are predictors of illness perceptions among Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The implications of this paper: The findings provide evidence regarding illness perceptions among Chinese diabetic patients, which adds to the international understanding of diabetes care.The findings help health care professionals to understand, recognize, and address illness perceptions and their predictors among patients with diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To examine the influence of health care provider's communication skills on the quality of care perceived by Emergency Department patients. Background: Communication between patients and health care providers in the context of Emergency Department is challenging and can potentially have a negative impact on the quality of care perceived by patients. Design Cross‐sectional descriptive study conducted in the Emergency Department at the University Clinical Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca of Murcia, Spain. Method: Data were collected from 6 to 9 June 2016. Different instruments were used to evaluate the perception of patients on the communication skills and quality of care at the Emergency Department. Results: The sample was composed of 200 patients, with an average age of 44.1 (SD = 18.3), of which 106 (53%) were men. The multiple linear regression analysis showed the association between communication skills (respect, problem solving, and nonverbal communication) and age with the quality of care perceived by the patients. Conclusions: We found that the communication skills of the health care providers were explanatory variables of the quality of care perceived in an Emergency Department. SUMMARY STATEMENT: What is already known about this topic? The needs of patients and families seeking emergency care differ from those of other care settings.Patient‐health care provider communication in an Emergency Department are a true challenge.Effective communication between emergency professionals and patients/family has been described as a fundamental component of health care. What this paper adds? Health care provider communication skills are explanatory for the quality perceived by Emergency Department patients.Respect, problem solving, and nonverbal aspects are explanatory for the quality of care in an Emergency Department. The implications of this paper: Humanized care, in which patients feel listened to and respected, and which is concerned about their health problems, could increase the quality of care perceived in the Emergency Department.Health care providers in Emergency Departments should be encouraged to increase their level of communication skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The nurse‐patient communication is a dyadic process involving the transmission and recognition of information and feelings. However, communication difficulty is a common phenomenon among mechanically ventilated patients which causes distress among patients and may compromise the quality of patient care that nurses provide. Aim: To explicate the communication preferences of registered nurses towards mechanically ventilated patients. Design Cross‐sectional, choice‐based conjoint analysis Methods: From August to November 2017, 201 purposively selected registered nurses with prior experience in caring for mechanically ventilated patients were surveyed and ranked 12 choice bundles with four selected attributes of the communication process. Results: Family participation was the most important attribute (40.40%) while communication initiator was the least important attribute (15.44%). Registered nurses prefer to communicate with mechanically ventilated patients if family members are involved (utility = 1.03), if conventional communication equipment are used (utility = 0.24), if open‐ended questions are asked (utility = 0.13), and if nurses are the communication initiator (utility = 0.22). Conclusion: The model of communication preferences highlights the importance of involving the family in the communication process and can inform family‐centered policies for mechanically ventilated patients. Unit policies on the use of conventional communication equipment should be considered to maximize the nurse‐patient communication and potentially improve patient care. SUMMARY STATEMENT: What is already known about this topic? Nurse‐patient communication is a dyadic process involving the transmission of information and feelings and the recognition of the patient's feelings by registered nurses.Communication difficulty is a common distressing symptom among mechanically ventilated patients.Several studies have explicated the perspectives of mechanically ventilated patients with their communication needs and preferences. What this paper adds? Nurses consider family participation as the most important attribute of nurse‐patient communication, while communication initiator was the least important attribute.Nurses prefer to communicate with mechanically ventilated patients when family members are involved, when conventional equipment is used, when conversations utilize open‐ended questions, and when the nurses themselves initiate the interaction. The implications of this paper The model of communication preferences can be used by nurses and nurse managers in developing effective nurse‐patient communication strategies which can maximize the interaction and ultimately improve patient care.This study highlights the importance of developing family‐centred policies and guidelines for mechanically ventilated patients.Unit policies and procedures using conventional communication equipment can be considered to maximize the communication process between patients and nurses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to determine the level of spiritual care and compassion among midwives working in delivery rooms and associated factors. Methods: A descriptive design was utilized to collect data using self‐report questionnaires from 181 midwives working in delivery rooms in Turkey. Data were collected between 1 February 2020 and 20 March 2020. Results: The mean Spiritual Care‐Giving Scale (SCGS) (min: 25‐ max: 175) and Compassion Scale (CS) (min: 24– max: 120) scores were 147.88 ± 17.84 and 96.37 ± 12.84. It was determined that there was a significant difference between the SCGS and CS scores of the midwives based on age, working year, work schedule, job satisfaction and traumatic birth experiences. Furthermore, there were positive correlations between scores on certain SCGS and CS subdimensions. Conclusion: Midwifery is a continuously evolving profession based on helping others. However, long working hours and their exposure to traumatic birth events negatively affect both spiritual caregiving and compassion levels of midwives. Working conditions of midwives need to improve and this would contribute to the quality of maternal healthcare. Also, studies should be conducted in different contexts, societies and cultures to identify barriers to compassionate and spiritual care during childbirth. Summary Statement: What is already known about this topic? Compassion and spirituality play a significant role in the quality of care in midwifery, similar to other healthcare fields.There are limited studies on the level of spiritual care and compassion in midwives working in delivery rooms, reflecting the situation in only certain contexts, societies and cultures. What is already known about this topic (research findings/key new information)? Barriers to the spiritual and compassionate care of midwives working in the delivery room in Turkish society have been identified.Year of working, work schedule, job satisfaction and exposure to traumatic birth events affect both spiritual caregiving and compassion levels of midwives. The implications of this paper (how findings influence or can be used to change policy/practice/research/education): For quality care in maternity services, the woman should be given compassionate care that includes spiritual care practices.Working conditions of midwives need to improve.Studies should be conducted in different contexts, societies and cultures to identify the barriers to this care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study was conducted with the aim of determining the fertility characteristics of Syrian refugee women and their knowledge, attitudes and behaviours with regard to family planning. Design and Sample: The research was designed as a descriptive and cross‐sectional type of study. The study group consisted of 389 refugee women in the 15‐ to 49‐year age group who had migrated from Syria to Hatay. Measure Study data were collected between October 2018 and January 2019 using forms containing questions on participants' sociodemographic characteristics, and their knowledge, attitudes and behaviour regarding family planning. Data analysis was performed with the use of frequency, percentage, mean, median, standard deviation values and the chi‐square test. Results: Most of the participants reported that they used a family planning method, 47.9% that they preferred traditional methods, 15.2% that the method used was supported by their husbands. Most of the participants had mistaken beliefs about pregnancy and family planning methods. Participants' information on modern family planning methods was affected by their age, income level and social security status; their knowledge of traditional family planning methods was affected by their income level, their family structure and their use of a traditional method. Women's use of family planning was affected by their age, income level and their knowledge of modern and traditional methods. Conclusions: Determination of the knowledge, attitudes and practice of refugee women regarding family planning and establishing the influential factors will enable nurses to make a contribution to the future provision of specific and culturally sensitive care to sick and healthy refugee women. SUMMARY STATEMENT: What is already known about this topic? Inclusive studies of family planning in refugees are relatively scarce.Lack of data concerning the knowledge, attitudes and implementation of family planning by refugee women affects and hinders their use of modern methods.What is already known about this topic? Although most refugee women knew about modern family planning methods, the rate of use was low.Women's attitudes affected their choice and use of family planning methods.When determining health practices in refugee groups, study findings emphasize the need to take account of the cultural practices of the target group in order to be successful.The implications of this paper: In raising the level of knowledge, achieving positive attitudes and turning knowledge into behaviour, it is important to support the husbands' use of family planning methods, and for both men and women to receive education on family planning.To meet the needs of Syrian refugee women for family planning services, nurses should provide counselling on modern family planning methods and ensure the sustainability of this service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an attempt is made to show the impact of education and media on contraceptive use and also to identify the factors that associated with the current use of contraception and continuing of contraception. To reach our goal, Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey ( BDHS 2007) data were used. Findings of this study reveal that education, age of the respondents, religion, media exposure, area of residence and if they belong to any of the non-governmental organizations ( Grameen Bank, Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee, ASA, Mother's club, etc.) have significant contribution to current use of contraception and continuing of contraception. Media, particularly TV, and education play the leading role regarding this issue, whereas the others have an indirect relationship. Multivariate analyses showed that contraceptive use were higher among educated women and those women who watch TV at least once a week as compared with their respective counterpart. The results indicate urgent need to give emphasis on education, ensuring electronic media exposure, head-to-head communication programme, institutional-based family planning education and necessary information to learn about the impact of overpopulation for the people all over the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is the report of a study to determine the effect on pain of internally rotating the foot, pointing the toes down and/or using the Z-track technique during intramuscular injection and to investigate differences in pain perception related to gender and body mass index. A randomized controlled trial was carried out from September to November 2010 on 75 patients receiving diclofenac sodium intramuscularly at a university hospital in Zonguldak, Turkey. The primary outcome measure collected was pain intensity, measured on a visual analogue scale. Each subject received three injections by the same investigator using three different techniques. The three techniques were randomly allocated, and the subjects were blinded to the injection technique being used. After each injection, another investigator, who had no prior knowledge of which injection technique was used, immediately assessed pain intensity using the visual analogue scale. Research findings demonstrated that the Z-track and internally rotated foot techniques significantly reduced pain intensity during intramuscular injection. Statistically significant differences in pain intensity were observed between the three injection techniques. The results supported the hypothesis that the internally rotated foot and Z-track techniques significantly reduce pain intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Self‐efficacy and family social support are significantly associated with hypertension self‐care behaviours. However, little is known about their mechanism in Saudi Arabia. This cross‐sectional study aimed to examine the relationships among family social support, self‐efficacy, and self‐care behaviours among men with hypertension in Saudi Arabia. Methods: Data were collected from May to August of 2018. The Hypertension Self‐Care Profile and the Perceived Social Support from Friends and Family scales were used to measure the study variables. Multiple linear regression was used to analyse the relationships between the variables, and the Baron and Kenny test was used to assess if self‐efficacy mediated the relationship between family social support and hypertension self‐care behaviours. Results: Respondents (N = 158) from the Jizan and Al‐Sharqia regions of Saudi Arabia completed the survey. Family social support and self‐efficacy were significantly associated with hypertension self‐care behaviours. In regression, self‐efficacy was the only variable significantly associated with hypertension self‐care behaviours. Self‐efficacy fully mediated the relationship between family social support and hypertension self‐care behaviours. Conclusions: Interventions to enhance hypertension self‐care behaviours among Saudi men could focus on increasing individual's self‐confidence to perform specific healthy behaviours. Family support can also contribute to the performance of hypertension self‐care behaviours. SUMMARY STATEMENT: What is already known about this topic? Hypertension is a public health concern in Saudi Arabia, and its control is highly associated with effective self‐care behaviours.Family social support is an important factor that contributes to improved blood pressure control and enhanced patients' quality of life.Self‐efficacy is necessary to promote healthy self‐care behaviours. What this paper adds? There is a need to support family members' engagement in hypertension treatment plan.The study provides evidence that self‐efficacy fully mediates the relationship between family social support and hypertension self‐care behaviours among men in Saudi Arabia. The implications of this paper: Nurses providing care for patients with hypertension should teach the family how to care for their loved ones to prevent unexpected complications.The results of this study can be used for further encouragement to self‐efficacy interventions for patients with hypertension.Based on our analysis of the literature, it is clear that further research is needed on improving self‐efficacy and family social support in hypertension care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite a growing body of literature investigating the impact of patients' age and sex differences on pain, there is little research on how patients' characteristics and behaviours affect nurses' pain management decisions. Aim: This study examined surgical nurses' views and experiences toward pain management in relation to the patients' characteristics and behaviours in a Jordanian university hospital. Methods: Focus group discussions (n = 4) were used with a convenience sample of 27 female Registered Nurses. Results: The study revealed differences in postoperative pain management related to patients' characteristics. Male patients were seen as more tolerant of postoperative pain than female patients and thus required less nursing attention. As a consequence, nurses might assess female surgical patients inaccurately or judgementally. Nurses label female patients as "demanding" or "over‐sensitive" without intending to be judgemental. Nurses also reported that patients accompanied by relatives received quicker nursing responses and closer monitoring than unaccompanied patients. Conclusions: If patients' pain following surgery is to be treated effectively, health care policymakers and educators should work together to eliminate and prevent potential biases that might lead to disparities in pain management. SUMMARY STATEMENT: What is already known about this topic? Postsurgical pain is still the most common complaint verbalized by patients and remains a largely unrecognized clinical problem.Registered Nurses in the postoperative setting play a vital role in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of pain management interventions.Experimental evidence has revealed some contradictions in whether pain perceptions among patients are related to age and gender; thus, there is a need to explore the views of those in pain management decisions. What this paper adds? This is the first qualitative study to examine the views of surgical nurses towards their pain management decisions that considers patient characteristics.Male patients were deemed more tolerant of post‐operative pain than the female patients and thus requiring less nursing attention.The study revealed that nurses might carry inaccurate perceptions towards female surgical patients, which could be seen in the form of judgemental labelling of these patients. The implications of this paper: The study emphasizes the need to employ a multidisciplinary strategy to enhance the status of surgical patient status and consideration of their circumstances including gender, age, sociocultural, and policy factors that might influence nurses' decisions and practice in pain management.Family caregivers need education about pain management and acknowledgement from surgical nurses about their role in pain management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of urinary incontinence on body image, self‐esteem, and quality of life. Methods: The study was conducted with 218 women with urinary incontinence. The study data were collected using the Socio‐Demographic Characteristics Questionnaire, Body Cathexis Scale, Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale, and Incontinence Quality of Life Questionnaire. Results: There was a weak, statistically significant, positive relationship found between the Body Cathexis Scale total average scores and the Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale total average scores of the women and a weak, statistically significant, negative relationship with the Incontinence Quality of Life Questionnaire total average scores. In addition, a weak, statistically significant, negative relationship was found between the Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale total score averages and Incontinence Quality of Life Questionnaire total score averages. Significant effects were seen for body image score with pad usage; for self‐esteem in relation to number of deliveries, duration, and frequency of urinary incontinence; and for incontinence quality of life and duration and frequency of urinary incontinence and pad usage. Conclusions: It was concluded that most of the women with urinary incontinence had negative body image and that more than half of them had moderate or low self‐esteem and a moderate quality of life. SUMMARY STATEMENT: What is already known about this topic? More than 200 million people in the world have incontinence problems, and the majority are women.Urinary incontinence causes negative psychosocial effects such as continuous leakage of urine and fear of smelling bad, feeling unclean, decreased self‐esteem, deterioration of body image, stigmatization, embarrassment, and decreased sexual desire.There are very few studies in the literature that determine the relationship between body image and self‐esteem in women with urinary incontinence. What this paper adds? Negative effects were demonstrated for urinary incontinence in relation to women's body image, self‐esteem, and quality of life. The implications of this paper: Urinary incontinence does not directly threaten women's lives but can become a problem that physically and psychologically affects the family and social life of a woman significantly; therefore, women with incontinence should be carefully considered and evaluated from a holistic viewpoint.Nurses should assess the emotions, thoughts, and perceptions of body image, self‐esteem, and quality of life of women with urinary incontinence, and as the awareness about urinary incontinence and its treatment increases, the population of patients receiving help will increase, thus increasing the success rate in urinary incontinence management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The majority of breast cancer patients will experience some level of emotional distress, with some patients having long‐term psychological maladjustment. Personal and social resources play a role in recovery yet the interplay between these factors warrants further examination. This study aimed to investigate the interaction of psychosocial factors impacting women in their breast cancer trajectory, at 2 years or less following diagnosis (stages I‐III). Design A longitudinal cohort study approach was used in this study. Methods: The sample consisted of n = 49 participants. Data were collected between June 2013 and October 2013 and followed for 12 months across the trajectory of the disease. Results: The mean age was 56.6 years (SD 11.6 years). Most participants had stage I or stage II breast cancer. Time (over three time points—4 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months) after diagnosis was significantly associated with the body image (P = .003) and age (P = .004). Conclusion: Older women with breast cancer reported less concern regarding body image than their younger peers. These findings suggest that posttreatment younger women may require access to psychological support posttreatment. SUMMARY STATEMENT: What is already known about this topic? The majority of breast cancer patients experience some level of emotional distress, with some patients having long‐term psychological maladjustment.Personal resources (ie, self‐image, optimism, and perceived control) and social resources (ie, social support) play a central role in recovery.The interplay between the personal and social resources is not well known particularly in the first 2 years postdiagnosis What this paper adds? Older women with breast cancer reported less concern regarding body image than their younger peers.Older women also experienced more positive future perspectives when compared with younger women.Younger women appeared less adaptive psychologically. The implications of this paper: There are known psychological impacts for women who have breast cancer, and nurses are well placed within their scope of practice to undertake routine mental state examination of these patients.Younger women who have breast cancer in particular may require additional psychological supports during the first 2 years postdiagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is a report of a study to examine the influence of demographic, learning involvement and learning performance variables on metacognition of undergraduate nursing students in a blended learning environment. A cross-sectional, correlational survey design was adopted. Ninety-nine students invited to participate in the study were enrolled in a professional nursing ethics course at a public nursing college. The blended learning intervention is basically an assimilation of classroom learning and online learning. Simple linear regression showed significant associations between frequency of online dialogues, the Case Analysis Attitude Scale scores, the Case Analysis Self Evaluation Scale scores, the Blended Learning Satisfaction Scale scores, and Metacognition Scale scores. Multiple linear regression indicated that frequency of online dialogues, the Case Analysis Self Evaluation Scale and the Blended Learning Satisfaction Scale were significant independent predictors of metacognition. Overall, the model accounted for almost half of the variance in metacognition. The blended learning module developed in this study proved successful in the end as a catalyst for the exercising of metacognitive abilities by the sample of nursing students. Learners are able to develop metacognitive ability in comprehension, argumentation, reasoning and various forms of higher order thinking through the blended learning process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of demographic variables, organizational commitment levels, perception of health and quality of work on turnover intentions. A self-reported cross-sectional survey design was used to collect data from Jordanian registered nurses who were working between June 2011 and November 2011. The findings showed strong effects of the quality of work, perception of health and normative organizational commitments on turnover intentions. This study sheds the light on the important work outcomes in health-care organizations. Increasing nursing quality of work and normative organizational commitment are good strategies for reducing turnover intentions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study examines the amount of sleep and daytime sleepiness, and how these change in a follow‐up cohort study of school‐aged children. Methods: A total of 1351 schoolchildren (aged 10) and their parents were invited to participate in the study and were studied again at ages 12 and 15 years. A survey put forth by the Health Behaviour of Schoolchildren research network was used. Results: The amount of sleep during weekdays dropped significantly from age 10 to 15. At weekends, the amount of sleep increased significantly. During weekdays, the proportion of children reporting having slept enough dropped from 71% at age 10 to 19% at age 15. Frequent daytime sleepiness occurred in 13% of children at age 10 and increased to 24% at the age of 15. Conclusions: It is essential to promote adequate amount of sleep and prevent daytime sleepiness in children growing from age 10 to 15 years. Nurses and other health care professionals should systematically assess and promote healthy sleeping habits while caring for children between these ages. SUMMARY STATEMENT: What is already known about this topic? Sufficient sleep is essential for the healthy development of school‐aged childrenThe amount of sleep drops between ages 10 and 15 years What this paper adds? Daytime sleepiness increases significantly between ages 10 and 15 years, and girls reported more frequent daytime sleepiness compared with boys.The amount of sleep drops more in girls compared with boys between the ages 10 and 15 yearsParents reported their children to sleep more compared with the children themselves The implications of this paper: Daytime sleepiness and amount of sleep should be systematically assessed by nurses and other health care professionals.Gender and age specific differences should be considered when promoting healthy sleep.Future research should focus on developing effective, youth‐driven interventions to promote healthy sleep and prevent daytime sleepiness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Erbil N, Boyacı S, Kurt İ, Akdoğan Y, Kaya İ. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2012; 18: 107-116 A Turkish study on menarche and menstrual experiences and their effects on attitudes towards menopause The purpose of this study was to investigate women's menarche and menstrual experiences and their effects on attitudes towards menopause. This research was planned as cross-sectional. A total of 300 women who had applied for a physical examination at the Maternity and Gynecology and Children's Hospital of Ordu province of Turkey were recruited for the study using the convenience sampling method. The study was conducted between 16 April and 28 May 2008. The research data were gathered using the Menopause Attitude Scale and a questionnaire. The average score for women on the Menopause Attitude Scale was 37.85 ± 10.34. Significant differences were found between attitudes of women towards menopause and the information they had received before menarche about menstruation ( P = 0.024), the meaning of menstruation ( P = 0.014), the interval time between menstrual periods ( P = 0.017), problems experienced before menstruation ( P = 0.035) and the desire of some women to continue menstruating and delay menopause ( P = 0.005). Results of this study showed that more than half of the women had negative attitudes towards menopause. In order to help girls and women develop positive attitudes about menarche, menstruation and menopause, they need to have access to information during all phases of these important physical changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kol E, Erdogan A, Karslı B. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2012; 18: 84-90 Nature and intensity of the pain following thoracotomy The aim of this study is to clearly define and describe the pain characteristics that disturb the patients having thoracotomy in postoperative period. It can be possible to manage to get pains under control according to pain characteristics. The study included 70 patients who underwent thoracotomy (lobectomy or segmentectomy and mean duration of surgery was 90 min) and were hospitalized in the intensive care unit of the Thoracic Surgery Department of Akdeniz University Hospital between November 2007 and November 2008. In this study, 68.6% of the patients were male and mean age was 49.90. The study was achieved. Consider that the patients have pain in the first 24 h postoperatively and the effect of sedation, the Behavioural Pain Scale, which is filled out by a researcher, and the Verbal Category Scale, which allows the patient to define his/her pain with short responses, were used for pain assessment. Pain was assessed at the postoperative 4th, 8th, 16th, 24th and 48th hours, following extubation. The patients mostly reported throbbing (65.7%), stabbing (65.7%) and stinging (62.9%) pain in the incision site, while 40% of them ( n = 28) reported a 'sharp', 'exhausting' and 'splitting' pain. The investigation of the factors increasing pain during the postoperative period revealed that most of the patients (85.7%) reported that their pain increased due to movement in bed and/or walking, while 74.3%, 68.6%, 54.3% and 37.1% of them stated that their pain increased due to breathing, coughing, chest tube movement and noisy environment, respectively. Each pain characteristics, throbbing, stabbing and stinging, can be specifically relief using one or more methods such as touching on the incision site, little press on the thoracotomy region, talking to the patient about pain, etc. We determined that the patients experienced a sharp, stabbing and unbearable pain in the first 48 postoperative hours. Therefore, our study suggests that some interventions such as pressure exertion and touching to the painful area were stated to provide pain relief to the patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salonen P, Tarkka M-T, Kellokumpu-Lehtinen P-L, Koivisto A-M, Åstedt-Kurki P, Kaunonen M. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2011; 17: 396-410 Individual face-to-face support and quality of life in patients with breast cancer Living with breast cancer significantly affects women's quality of life (QOL) creating a need for support that might persist throughout the breast cancer experience. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of individual face-to-face support on women's QOL and identify factors associated with their QOL. A two-group quasi-experimental design was used with a sample of 204 women who was assigned to the intervention ( n = 112) or the control group ( n = 92) in hospital after breast cancer surgery. Data of this study were collected 6 months after the surgery by structured questionnaires and analysed statistically using descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests. Factors predicting poor QOL were investigated using logistic regression models with enter-method. Women in the intervention group reported less arm symptoms and clinically better sexual functioning. Factors related to QOL were age, education, employment status, lymph node status, type of surgery, type of axillary surgery, received chemotherapy, hormonal therapy and ongoing therapy. Factors, predictive of poor QOL, included control group, age, education, type of surgery, type of axillary surgery, chemotherapy and ongoing therapy. Short-term face-to-face education and support intervention might have decreased arm symptoms and increased sexual functioning. Women with breast cancer should be offered systematic support and education, which is tailored to women's individual needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eley DS, Eley RM. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2011; 17: 380-387 Personality traits of Australian nurses and doctors: Challenging stereotypes? This study compared temperament and character traits of Australian registered nurses and general practitioners. A cross-sectional quantitative design used the Temperament and Character Inventory. Total sample size was 426. Only main effects were detected. Nurses were higher in the temperament traits of Novelty Seeking and Reward Dependence, lower in the character traits of Self-Directedness and Cooperativeness but higher in Self-Transcendence compared with the sample of doctors. Differences in personality profiles between registered nurses and general practitioners might challenge existing stereotypes between these professions. Further exploration of traits exclusive to and shared among health professions would supplement a broad conceptualization of specialities and support the enhancement of appropriate training and career counselling. Awareness of one's temperament and character can lead to a clearer understanding of how they function in the workplace and might encourage reflection on and insight into the implications of their personality and career plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poomsrikaew O, Ryan CJ, Zerwic JJ. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 492-498 Knowledge of heart attack symptoms and risk factors among native Thais: A street-intercept survey method This study aimed to determine Thais' knowledge of heart attack symptoms and risk factors and whether that knowledge was related to age, gender or education. Via a street-intercept survey method, a convenience sample of people aged ≥ 35 years ( n = 192) was recruited. Mean age was 47 ± 9.6 years (range 35-81), and 55.2% were female. Participants identified on average 5.6 of 9 heart attack symptoms (SD 1.8) and 5.3 of 8 heart attack risk factors (SD 2.1). However, 66.7% mistakenly thought the chest discomfort would be severe, sharp and stabbing, and many subjects erroneously selected symptoms that are actually stroke symptoms. There were no gender or educational differences in knowledge of heart attack symptoms and risk factors. Older adults recognized fewer total symptoms than did younger adults. These findings could direct health-care providers to help the Thai population differentiate symptoms of heart attack from stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aims: In this study, we investigated the relationship of the prevalence and incidence of insomnia with the new hire transition workload in nurses. Methods: This retrospective study used the clinical diagnosis data of the entire nursing population in Taiwan for 2005 to 2008, drawn from the National Health Insurance Research Database. Adjusted logistic regression and Cox regression models were used to separately analyse factors related to the prevalence and incidence of insomnia. Results: During this period, the prevalence of insomnia increased, whereas its incidence remained stable. After adjustment for demographic variables in the logistic regression models, the higher prevalence of insomnia was associated with a longer employment duration and a higher new hire ratio. In the Cox regression models, a higher incidence of insomnia was associated with a shorter employment duration and a higher new hire ratio. Nurses with a longer employment duration had a higher prevalence, but lower incidence, of insomnia. A higher new hire ratio was associated with a higher prevalence and incidence of insomnia. Conclusion: To mitigate the risk of insomnia, we suggest that additional support should be provided to non‐new nurses to assist them in the new hire transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: To describe changes in prevalence of shoulder stiffness, back pain, and wrist pain during the first 6 months postpartum, and to examine the association of these symptoms with maternal age and parity. Methods: Participants were recruited from 13 Japanese hospitals between 2012 and 2013. A total of 2709 (response rate 71.9%) women provided longitudinal data, using self‐report questionnaires at 5 time points: during their hospital stay, and at 1, 2, 4, and 6 months postpartum. Shoulder stiffness, back pain, and wrist pain were measured, using checklists with yes‐no responses. The effects of age and parity were assessed in 4 groups of younger (<35 years) and older (≥35 years) mothers: 983 younger primiparas, 481 older primiparas, 649 younger multiparas, and 596 older multiparas. Chi‐square tests and Cochran's Q tests were used to assess effects of group and time. Results: Prevalence of shoulder stiffness, back pain, and wrist pain during the hospital stay significantly increased up to 1 month postpartum for older primiparas, who were also the most vulnerable to back pain and wrist pain at 1 month postpartum. Conclusion: Special attention should be given to older primiparas in assessing and providing nursing care for physical symptoms, especially during the first month postpartum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Postoperative delirium (POD) and declined cognitive function were common in patients (especially elderly patients) who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), which may affect quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study was to determine the relationships among age, POD, declined cognitive function, and QoL in patients who underwent CABG. Methods Consecutive patients who underwent first time elective CABG and assessed for POD using Confusion Assessment Method for intensive care unit for 5 postoperative days from November 2013 to March 2015 were recruited. A cross-sectional study was conducted during April 2015 to assess their cognitive function and QoL, using the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status Scale and Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey. The relationships among age, POD, declined cognitive function, and QoL were tested using path analysis. Results Declined cognitive function was associated with poorer QoL. POD was associated with declined cognitive function but was not associated with poorer QoL. Ageing was not associated with QoL but was associated with POD and declined cognitive function. Conclusion The QoL of patients developed delirium after CABG is determined by cognitive function after discharge. Necessary strategies should be implemented to prevent POD and declined cognitive function, especially in elderly patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To describe the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of patients with prostate cancer and their spouses in comparison with the Finnish general population, using the RAND 36-Item Health Survey. An additional purpose was to describe the associations between the background variables of the participants and their HRQOL. Background The HRQOL of patients with prostate cancer and especially their spouses at the time of diagnosis is not well known. Design A cross-sectional study. Methods Responses were received from 232 patients and 229 spouses at 5 central hospitals in Finland between October 2013 and January 2016. Results Compared to the Finnish general population mean, the HRQOL of the patients and their spouses was, on average, better for all dimensions. Patients' age, the presence of disease, and the treatment method were associated with the dimensions of HRQOL. The dimensions of HRQOL were also associated with spouses' age, basic and vocational education, and the presence of disease. Conclusion The patients and their spouses experienced their HRQOL as very similar; however, on average, it is better than the general population mean. However, the evidence suggests that support from the nurses should focus on emotional well-being, the dimension that received the lowest scores in both groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Ineffective communication of critical care nurses can lead to higher levels of burnout and negatively affect quality of patient care and patient outcomes such as higher mortality. Aim The purpose of this study is to describe the relationship between professional communication competences and nursing performance of critical care nurses in South Korea. Method This cross-sectional study collected data on 197 intensive care unit staff nurses in 3 tertiary academic medical centres in South Korea from July to November 2014. Results In the hierarchical regression analysis, the professional communication competences were the only significant predictors of nursing performance after adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics. In addition, the greater professional communication competences of nurses were associated with being older and having a higher education level, more years of overall clinical and intensive care unit experience, and a higher monthly salary. Conclusion Our findings indicate that communication skills-related training should be included in the practical education to improve nursing performance for the quality of intensive care. Further research is needed to identify the comprehensive factors on professional communication competences of nurses in intensive care units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We explored the positions of nurses working in hospitals regarding the acceptability of refusing to give a repeat dose of painkiller to a postoperative patient who requested it. These positions were compared with that of lay people, physicians, and other health professionals. Design and Methods: Factorial design was used to assess the impact of 6 situational factors: the patient's age, the current level of pain as assessed by the nurse, the number of requests, the level of risk associated with the administration of a repeat dose, the outcome of surgery, and the giving of alternative mild analgesics. We implemented a combination of scenario technique and of cluster analysis. Data were collected from April 2013 to December 2015. Participants: 138 registered nurses, 32 nurse's aides, 33 physicians, 23 psychologists, and 169 lay people participated in the study. Results: We found 4 qualitatively different meaningful positions. A plurality of participants (57% of nurses) considered that refusing was not acceptable, irrespective of circumstances. A substantial minority of participants (but 52% of physicians) considered that refusing was acceptable only if the level of pain was low and the risk was high. Other participants (mostly lay people) considered that refusing was always acceptable each time a risk of side effects, either serious or simply mild, was present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to assess fatigue, depressive symptoms, and maternal confidence or satisfaction among older primiparae during the first month postpartum. The number of older Japanese primiparae has rapidly increased. Older primiparae are believed to be at high risk for puerperal morbidity. A multicentre prospective cohort study design was used. Data were examined from 2854 Japanese women who participated in a 6-month prospective cohort study conducted between May 2012 and September 2013. The women were classified into 4 groups based on maternal age and parity. All participants completed the Postnatal Accumulated Fatigue Scale, Japanese Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, Postpartum Maternal Confidence Scale, and Postpartum Maternal Satisfaction Scale. Primiparae in all age groups were more severely fatigued and had a higher risk of postpartum depression than multiparous mothers during the first month postpartum. Older primiparae had significantly lower scores on maternal confidence and maternal satisfaction than the other 3 groups at 1 month postpartum. These findings suggest that postpartum nursing should focus on promoting adequate sleep, providing emotional support, and fostering the process of maternal role adaptation among older Japanese primiparae, particularly during the first postpartum month. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to establish whether family characteristics and the health behaviour and illnesses of parents and children are associated with public health nurses' (PHNs') concerns about children's physical health and psychosocial development in the context of health examinations. Factors affecting children's health and well-being should be identified as early as possible to provide children and families appropriate support. In 2007-2009, a cross-sectional study in Finland collected information about PHNs' concerns, children's health and well-being as well as the background factors affecting them during health examinations of preschool-age children and school-aged children ( n = 4795). Associations between family characteristics, parents' and children's behaviour and diseases, and PHNs' concerns were assessed using logistic regression analysis. Overweight in children, the long-term illnesses of both children and parents, and parental smoking were the factors most strongly associated with PHNs' concerns about a child's physical health whereas non-nuclear family types, the father's low educational level and unemployment, the child's lack of sleep, and bullying were associated with concerns about the child's psychosocial development. The connections found demonstrate that health examinations should address factors that affect the whole family's well-being so as to comprehensively promote children's health, growth and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVC) are widely used in clinical nursing, but indwelling time remains a subject of debate. This study aimed to assess the risk factors for PIVC phlebitis in adults and provide a basis for indwelling time decisions. A total of 189 first-time PIVC patients in the emergency ward were assessed between May and October 2015. Data were retrieved for patient characteristics and PIVC assessment records. This study showed that over two-thirds (67.72%) of PIVCs were removed because of phlebitis, including oedema (37.57%), rubefaction (33.33%), pain (32.28%), slow infusion speed (13.23%) and accidental extrusion (2.12%). PIVC indwelling time in the planned removal group was higher than that obtained for the unplanned removal group: 152.42 (74.58) vs. 94.64 (50.15) h, P < 0.001. At indwelling times > 96 h, 28.57% ( n = 54) of catheters caused phlebitis, although 23.28% ( n = 44) showed no phlebitis. PIVC phlebitis was associated with treatment with compound amino acid infusion (OR: 2.624), site at the elbow joint (OR: 3.049), haemoglobin level (OR: 2.492), white cell count (OR: 2.196) and catheter size (OR: 1.837). Study findings suggest that PIVC might be used for longer durations based on nursing assessments and health education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review that investigates the differences in illness perception with age and gender in patients diagnosed with coronary artery disease. Previous studies show some discrepancies regarding the influence of age and gender on the specific dimensions of coronary artery disease patients' illness perception. A systematic review using a narrative synthesis process included preliminary synthesis, exploration of relationships and assessment of the robustness of the synthesis and findings was conducted. Search terms were used to identify research studies published between 1996 and December 2014 across four key databases: CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO and Web of Science. A total of 14 studies met the inclusion criteria of the review. The review found that men had a stronger perception that their own behaviour had caused their illness than women. In addition, older patients had lower perceptions of the consequences and chronicity of their illness. This analysis concludes that some dimensions of illness perception vary according to age and gender of patients with coronary artery disease. These differences should be taken into consideration, particularly when providing health education and cardiac rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine the levels of sleep problems, anxiety, depression and fatigue in family members of intensive care patients in Turkey and factors affecting these complaints. This cross-sectional study was carried out with 350 first-degree relatives of intensive care patients at a university and state hospital. Data were collected between 5 January and 30 May 2014 using a personal information form, the Visual Analogue Scale for Fatigue, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the modified Post Sleep Inventory. Of the 350 family members, 76% reported moderate or more serious problems. Anxiety was reported by 81.4% of the family members, and depression by 94.2%. Family members in the study had fatigue, with average scores of 79.42. There were significant correlations between the Visual Analogue Scale for Fatigue and anxiety, depression and scores on the Modified Post-Sleep Inventory ( P < 0.05). Family members of intensive care patients experienced symptoms of fatigue, anxiety, depression and sleep problems. The prevalence of symptoms of sleep problems, anxiety and depression and complaints of fatigue was significantly higher in the family members of intensive care patients in Turkey than reported in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to examine the burden of family caregivers of patients with retinoblastoma in China and the relationships between depression, caregiver burden and social support. A descriptive and correlational survey was conducted with 117 Chinese family caregivers of outpatient patients with retinoblastoma from the Department of Ophthalmology of a tertiary hospital in Shanghai, China. Family caregivers of outpatient patients with retinoblastoma were asked to respond to four questionnaires including sociodemographic questionnaire, Becker Depression Inventory, Caregiver Burden Inventory and Social Support Rating Scale. The incidence of depression in this study was 51.3%; the average score for social support indicated moderate social support available to the caregivers, although their level of caregiver burden was heavy. Depression scores were significantly positively correlated with caregiver burden scores and significantly negatively correlated with the social support scores. Heavy caregiver burden was associated with lower monthly income, low subjective social support and less use of social support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data from the Patients and Families Psychological Response to the Home Automated External Defibrillator Trial were used to examine the relationship between biopsychosocial variables and patients' coping strategies postmyocardial infarction. This study is the secondary data analysis of longitudinal observational study. A total of 460 patient-spouse pairs were recruited in January 2003 to October 2005. Hierarchical linear regression analysis examined biological/demographic, psychological and social variables regarding patients' coping scores using the Family Crisis Oriented Personal Evaluation Scale. Lower social support and social support satisfaction predicted lower total coping scores. Being younger, male gender and time since the myocardial infarction predicted lower positive coping strategy use. Higher anxiety and lower social support were related to fewer positive coping methods. Lower educational levels were related to increased use of negative coping strategies. Reduced social support predicted lower total coping scores and positive coping strategy use and greater passive coping style use. Social support from a broad network assisted with better coping; those living alone may need additional support. Social support and coping strategies should be taken into consideration for patients who have experienced a cardiac event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the study was to explore the individual, social and environmental factors influencing regular exercise on the basis of the theoretical framework of social ecological model among adults with type 2 diabetes and peripheral neuropathy. A total of 122 participants were chosen from Tianjin Metabolic Disease Hospital from November 2013 to May 2014. Information on exercise status and influencing factors was collected. Most participants took walking as the mode of exercise and exercised alone. Only 59.8% of participants were reported to carry out regular exercise. Logistic regression analysis suggested that being male, longer duration with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, higher self-efficacy for exercise and higher objective support were associated with regular exercise. Exercise status was clearly not ideal among adults with type 2 diabetes and peripheral neuropathy. The study highlighted the need to take measures to improve self-efficacy for exercise and social support in order to promote exercise participation among adults with type 2 diabetes and peripheral neuropathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to explore the symptom management strategies utilized by post coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) patients and its associations with demographic variables. A clear understanding of the use of symptom management strategies following CABG surgery may help nurses in developing educational program and interventions that help patients and their families during recovery period after discharge. A cross-sectional, descriptive design was utilized. A convenience sample of 100 Jordanian patients post CABG surgery selected from five hospitals was surveyed between November 2012 and June 2013 using the Cardiac Symptom Survey. Chi squared analyses were used to examine the associations between the symptoms management strategies and selected demographic variables. Frequency of symptom management strategies utilized by post CABG patients revealed that most frequently employed strategies were use of medications (79%), repositioning (54%) and the rest (45%). Symptom management strategies utilized for poor appetite, sleeping problem and fatigue had significant associations with demographic variables. By providing information about the symptoms expected after surgery and possible ways to manage them, will strengthen the patients psychologically and will make CABG experience within the realm of self-management and coping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate relations between ease of venous palpation and various venous factors, and to elucidate characteristics of hardly palpable veins. Healthy adult volunteers (n = 110) were enrolled. The ease of venous palpation was scored from 0: impalpable to 3: well palpable. Venous factors, namely venous depth, elevation, area and minimal pressure that starts to collapse vein, were measured using an ultrasonography before and after tourniquet inflation at 60 mmHg for 60 s. Tourniquet inflation significantly increased the venous area and venous palpation score. The four venous factors correlated significantly with venous palpation score with the following correlation coefficient: Depth (r = -0.542), Elevation (0.486), area (0.258) and start-to-collapse pressure (-0.220). The characteristics of hardly palpable veins were small size, deep location and little elevation. Although vasodilatation facilitated venous palpation, venous depth and elevation were also important and should be included in future studies in which vasodilatation methods are evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is to estimate the effectiveness of a diabetic case management programme on health-care service utilization. The study population included 6007 as the intervention group and 956 766 as the control group. As the indicators of health-care service utilization, numbers of medical ambulatory consultations, days of medication prescribed and medical expenses for one year were used, and we analysed the claim data of the health insurance from 2005 to 2007. The study population was classified into three subgroups based on the number of medical ambulatory consultations per year before this intervention. In the under-serviced subgroup, the intervention group showed a significant increase in the number of consultations (3.2), days of prescribed medication (66.4) and medical expenses (287 900 KRW) compared with the control group. Conversely, in the over-serviced subgroup, the intervention group showed a less decrease days of prescribed medication (1.6) compared with the control group. This showed that the case management programme led the intervention group to optimize their utilization of health-care services by subgroups. It is necessary to evaluate the appropriateness of health-care usage and clinical outcome to show the direct effectiveness of the case management programme by subgroups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate and analyse the connection between the level of quality of nursing care and knowledge received by patients (N = 266, n = 226), response rate was 85%. The data were collected using two structured instruments: one measuring the quality of nursing care experienced by patients (The Good Nursing Care Scale, GNCS) and one measuring the received knowledge of hospital patients (RKHP). The data were collected at one (out of five) Finnish university hospitals, in all medical wards during 5 weeks in 2009. A clear association between the level of the quality of nursing care and the level of received knowledge was found: on the total level of instruments, correlation was strong (r = 0.705). Support of empowerment (GNCS) had statistically significant strong correlation between biophysiological knowledge (RKHP), (r = 0.718), and experiential knowledge (r = 0.633), (P = 0.01). Furthermore, there was a strong correlation between nursing activities and biophysiological knowledge (r = 0.637). Higher age, sufficient advance information and better self-perceived health status were associated both with the level of the quality of nursing care and level of received knowledge. In the future, a special attention should be paid to the sufficient information for patients before their hospital stays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]