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The world's population is rapidly ageing, with conditions such as urinary incontinence, which are especially prevalent among older adults, expected to rise in prevalence as a result. Urinary incontinence is particularly common in older women; however, despite its profound impact on every aspect of women's health and wellbeing, it is often minimised by both individual patients and the wider healthcare system. Francesca Ramadan delves into the prevalence of and psychosocial effects and patient-related factors related to urinary incontinence in older women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Midwives are in an optimum position to address the mental health of new fathers and paternal perinatal mental health is a recognised concern. However, the mechanisms that exist to recognise, escalate and intervene appropriately are limited in scope and effectiveness. Screening tools may have the potential to identify fathers at risk of postpartum depression, but they are limited in sensitivity and specificity, meaning that when there may be deterioration in a partner's mental health, diagnosis may not follow. This has implications for the health and wellbeing of the family, especially if male partners are relied upon as the mainstay of emotional and social support for women in the early postnatal period. To actualise strategies to address these issues, changes in policy, education and practice are required. Recommendations for research, education and patient engagement are made to assure early intervention and to ensure that emotional and social support in the family is optimised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People with an outward peristomal body profile can experience difficulties obtaining a secure seal with a flat baseplate to the peristomal skin. Baseplates with a concave contour have been designed to provide a better fit to curved body profiles and reduce the risk of leakage. In this 4-week product evaluation, 110 individuals with an outward peristomal body profile using flat one-piece pouching systems were enrolled to evaluate the impact of a concave one-piece pouching system on wear time, unplanned changes of pouching systems and use of accessories. The product evaluation consisted of two test periods of 2 weeks each. After the first screening period, study nurses evaluated whether the concave pouching system was suitable for the participants and, together with each participant, decided whether to proceed to the second evaluation period. Use of the concave pouching system did not significantly affect wear time but led to significantly fewer unplanned changes of pouching systems and less use of accessories, which may lead to cost savings for the healthcare system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent changes have allowed advanced level UK dietitians and therapeutic radiographers to prescribe medicines. To date, there has been no comprehensive review of this evidence. Aim: To undertake a rapid review of the role advanced practice dietitians and therapeutic radiographers have in relation to medicines management. Method: Searches of MEDLINE, CINAHL and economic databases were conducted for literature published from 1968–November 2023. Registered with Figshare, a narrative synthesis following PRISMA guidelines was undertaken. Findings: Twenty articles revealed a dearth of literature evaluating advanced practice or prescribing in either profession. A lack of clarity regarding advanced practice roles led to ambiguity and hindered implementation. Conclusion: There is a lack of evidence evaluating dietitian and therapeutic radiographer advance practice or prescribing. Urgent evaluation of dietitian and therapeutic radiography advanced practice, including prescribing, is required if their contribution to alleviating workforce shortages is to be better understood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infiltration and extravasation injuries are a common complication of intravenous therapy and vascular access practice. However, there remains a lack of awareness and understanding surrounding these injuries. The first of two articles (Barton, 2024) reported on data from a study showing that the use of ivWatch infusion site surveillance technology can dramatically reduce the number of infiltration and extravasation injures with peripheral intravenous infusions of vesicant preparations, which can improve patient safety and have a positive financial impact. This second of two articles on infiltration and extravasation examines the financial and academic burdens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health literacy is defined as an individual's ability to access, understand and use information to make informed decisions. This study aimed to assess health literacy levels and explore the relationship between health literacy and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) severity. A cross-sectional study of health literacy in patients with COPD used the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ) and the Medical Research Council Breathlessness Scale to assess COPD severity. HLQ domains of 'having sufficient information to manage my health', 'actively managing health', and 'understanding health information' scored most highly. Patients with the greatest COPD severity had lower scores in the domain 'having sufficient information to manage my health', but indicated an improved ability to appraise health information. Patients with increased COPD severity have greater self-reported skills in appraising health information, but they report reduced confidence in having sufficient information to manage their health. This study highlights the importance of considering health literacy levels, as this could be a barrier to successful self-management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Wound Care Association UK (WCAUK) is committed to supporting both the accurate and consistent delivery and reporting of pressure ulcers/injuries based on the best available research and evidence. It is known that strategic and clinical guidance to support the delivery of evidence-based care does have a significant impact. Recent proposals to change pressure ulcer categorisation led the WCAUK to undertake a questionnaire survey of its members. This article outlines the importance of evidence-based guidance on the categorisation and assessment of pressure ulcer, highlighted by the responses to published changes to pressure ulcer categorisation for nurses in England, and presents the results of the survey. The article concludes that, although the discipline of tissue viability is constantly developing, the changes must be based on evidence, and clinicians must be supported strategically and practically to implement any proposed changes. Since publication of the new guidance the document has become the subject of further discussion, following concerns raised by tissue viability nurse specialists with strategic responsibility for change, as well as generalists who are expected to implement the changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Following stroke, people can present with spatial perceptual deficits, which are associated with vertical perception deficits and are known to negatively influence the outcome of rehabilitation. It is not known how vertical perception deficits influence rehabilitation therapists' assessment and treatment choices. A survey of mainly UK-based physiotherapists and occupational therapists was undertaken to explore views and current practice in relation to vertical perception following stroke. Specifically, the survey investigated rehabilitation therapists' views on terminology, assessment and treatment, impact on functional outcome and clinical decision making. Methods: An online survey was completed by a convenience sample of 70 rehabilitation therapists (52 physiotherapists and 18 occupational therapists). Results: Vertical perception deficits were commonly encountered by respondents and were diagnosed mainly through observation. Respondents were confident in their ability to assess and treat vertical perception deficits. Vertical perception deficits were understood to be associated with pushing behaviour, neglect, weight-bearing asymmetry and decreased balance. Respondents understood it was related to severe, right-sided strokes with sensory and proprioceptive loss, but were inconsistent in their awareness of the specific brain regions involved in vertical perception deficits, specifically in posterior circulation strokes. Respondents reported that stroke survivors with vertical perception deficits require longer periods of rehabilitation, and overall have a worse functional outcome than those without. A variety of treatment options were used to address vertical perception deficits. Conclusions: Further research should investigate the treatment and assessment used by rehabilitation therapists in relation to vertical perception deficits following stroke. Implications for practice: Vertical perception deficits are commonly encountered in stroke rehabilitation. Rehabilitation therapists identify this mainly through observation. There are currently no methods to quantify vertical perception deficits in the clinical environment. Individuals living with vertical perception deficit may require longer periods of rehabilitation. At present, there are no evidence-based interventions to address vertical perception deficits in people who have had a stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Personalised care is associated with high-quality, safe maternity care. Limited evidence exists on midwives' perception of personalised care and potential barriers and facilitators associated with implementing it in practice. The aim of this study was to explore midwives' perspectives of personalised care. Methods: An online mixed-methods survey was conducted exploring the perspectives of 46 NHS midwives. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Results: Assessing individual needs was perceived as a key facilitator and time restrictions were considered a significant barrier to providing personalised care in practice. Conclusions: Providing personalised care is associated with increased job satisfaction for midwives, and key barriers include inflexible healthcare systems and limited resources. Implications for practice: The findings contribute to an understanding of the factors that influence the provision of personalised care and have the potential to inform improvements in maternity services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contraception is freely available in the UK from the NHS through pharmacies or private providers, such as Brook clinics. Despite wider societal acceptance of contraception, practical, psychological and social barriers remain to access for a range of groups. A first consultation to assess contraceptive needs will require a longer appointment as there are many issues to discuss alongside those pertaining directly to contraceptive use, such as emergency contraception, safeguarding and sexually transmitted infection risk. Health professionals must consider consent and confidentiality in any consultation and be aware of groups who are at higher risk of abuse, such as vulnerable adults and those from the LGBTQ+ community. This article discusses contraception use, and forms of available contraception in the UK, including common risks and benefits, barriers to accessing contraception and emergency contraception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state (HHS) are both diabetic emergencies that require immediate identification and intervention. Advanced clinical practitioners (ACPs) play a crucial role in the early detection, management and co-ordination of care for patients with these conditions, although some may feel less confident in handling such complex cases. This clinical review explores the role of ACPs in managing DKA and HHS, focusing on their responsibilities in diagnosis, treatment initiation, and communication within multidisciplinary teams. It also examines the epidemiology, pathogenesis, risk factors, and causes of these conditions, alongside diagnostic criteria and management strategies. In addition, the review highlights the importance of minimising risks and preventing recurrence to ultimately enhance patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart failure (HF) and lymphoedema often co-exist, significantly affecting the quality of life and requiring complex management. Heart Failure, characterised by reduced cardiac function, affects around 1 million people in the UK. Lymphoedema, involving lymphatic failure, affects 4 to 29 per 1000 individuals, particularly older adults. Traditionally heart failure management focuses on medication, while lymphoedema relies on compression therapy (CT). The article examines the integration of CT to treat lymphoedema with coexisting HF. Evidence suggests that with careful management and multidisciplinary collaboration, CT can be safely used in stable HF patients to manage lymphoedema, improving overall treatment outcomes and patient wellbeing. This approach requires adherence to guidelines and a holistic, patient-centred care model. Debates about CT for lymphoedema in the presence of HF highlight the need for patient-focused and all-encompassing care. Practitioners must consider the broader context of both conditions and collaborate with colleagues and patients to make informed treatment decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is the second instalment in the series. The preceding article detailed the background, methodology and methods, while the current article delves into the study's findings and alignment with the broader literature. The study aimed to explore the research question: 'how do men perceive their engagement in the self-management of non-cancer-related lymphoedema?' Upon completing an online survey based on the validated lymphoedema quality of life tool (LYMQoL), the gathered data underwent narrative thematic analysis. Three themes emerged: Theme 1 explored the strategies men use to address the psychological impact of self-care, including physical concealment. Theme 2 focused on the use of physical control as a method for managing perceived vulnerability. Theme 3 centred on relationships within self-care. The findings shed light on the intricate nature of self-care in the context of lymphoedema and its impact on masculinity. These insights resonate with existing literature, emphasising the use of available resources driven by the perceived vulnerability men experience in their lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colostomy patients have distinct needs that require specialised pathways for optimal care. Recognising that these needs vary, based on the type and configuration of the stoma, is crucial. Specialist nurses play a vital role in providing long-term support and expertise. While many stoma nursing services in the UK offer patient pathways, these often lack specificity for different stoma types. Tailoring pathways to colostomy patients can prevent complications, reduce hospital readmissions and enhance quality of life. Community nurses and other healthcare professionals are essential in supporting colostomy patients through individualised care. Their involvement ensures that patients receive appropriate preparation for life with a stoma and are adequately educated about their specific needs. This multidisciplinary approach fosters a comprehensive care environment, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of living with a colostomy. By focusing on personalised care and life-long support, healthcare professionals can significantly improve patient outcomes and overall well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The UK has a growing ageing population with increased prevalence of long-term conditions. It has the potential to overwhelm the country's healthcare system. The COVID-19 pandemic and its risk of transmission provided an opportunity for people with long-term conditions to focus on self-care and for district nurses to promote self-management. Self-management strategies, such as digital technology, motivational interviewing, social prescribing and shared decision-making can assist them in planning a whole-population approach towards managing physical and mental wellbeing. For this to become a reality, investment is needed to educate the patients, their carers, district nurses, multidisciplinary teams and to ensure the sustainability of self-care methods for future practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The JCCP remains committed to the key principles contained within the JCCP/CPSA's current competency standards framework [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses enhancing systemic anti-cancer treatment (SACT) capacity by implementing subcutaneous atezolizumab for lung cancer treatment. Topics include the increasing demand for SACT in the United Kingdom, the benefits of subcutaneous over intravenous administration in reducing clinic time and improving patient comfort, and the need for wider adoption of subcutaneous immune checkpoint inhibitors to ease the burden on healthcare systems.

Aim: To provide insights into the optimal use of virtual reality (VR) in nursing education by evaluating pre-registration nursing students' experiences in conducting holistic patient assessments while interacting with artificial intelligence (AI)-led patients. Specifically, this project evaluation compares the use of two different VR scenarios, one employing a menu-based interface and another using AI voice-controlled technology. Methods: Eleven pre-registration adult nursing students from two UK universities were selected through purposeful sampling to participate in the two VR simulations. Data collection and analysis: This included qualitative insights gathered from three focus group sessions, audio-recorded and thematically analysed to classify and describe students' experiences. Findings: Four key themes emerged: technological literacy, VR as a learning tool, the road of learning, and transition to independence. Advantages across both methods of VR-AI interaction and their particular challenges were identified and described for each key theme. Conclusion: VR with AI-led patient technology in pre-registration nursing education positively contributes to the curriculum by exposing students to problem-based learning situations and use of a multiplicity of skills in a safe environment. Although both methods are relevant for developing proficiencies around holistic patient assessment, there are advantages and limitations to each. Students perceived the voice-controlled technology as more intuitive with a more natural method of communication, whereas the menu-based interaction gave students more structure and guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This evaluation combines clinical and non-clinical collaborative breast referral triage to gain an understanding relating to the value of triage, by identifying 'suspected cancer' and 'cancer not suspected' populations, improve the patient pathway, and facilitate optimised resource availability. Method: An iterative service improvement method was used, with distinct phases of the process outlined to facilitate testing of ideas. The evaluation ran for 13 weeks in 2022. Regular team member meetings were arranged to discuss and agree improvement aims and outcomes. Findings: A triage flowchart was developed collaboratively, and subsequently adopted by the non-clinical booking team. Bespoke clinics were established, demonstrating no evidence of increased risk to patients, and meeting 28-day Faster Diagnosis Standard (FDS) requirements. Conclusion: breast referral triage of 'suspected cancer' and 'cancer not suspected' patients, using a clinical and non-clinical collaborative approach facilitates improved service visibility, prioritisation, management, and measurement. This also supports delivery of the 2019 NHS Long Term Plan to enhance earlier and faster cancer diagnosis by optimising access to diagnostic resources where required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the UK, student nurses, nursing associates and midwives are supervised by practice supervisors and practice assessors while completing the placement-based component of their training. Because of increased clinical commitments, staff shortages and rising student numbers, demands for the supervision and assessment of student nurses have increased in recent years and this was exacerbated by COVID-19. The Nursing and Midwifery Council's Standards for Student Supervision and Assessment separated the roles of practice supervisor and assessor, giving rise to opportunities to assess students in a different way. Some integrated care systems are exploring the new role of roaming assessor. Roaming assessors can fulfil the role of practice assessors while providing additional support for student nurses. This role could be expanded to other health professions. This article explores the use of practice learning facilitators as roaming assessors for student nurses in the UK and evaluates the potential benefits and limitations of this approach. Roaming assessors may provide a useful service to deliver practice assessments, increasing the reliability and availability of assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to consider the 'lifestyle medicine' approach to nursing, which focuses on patients with conditions that would benefit from a lifestyle nursing approach, supporting and empowering people to make lifestyle changes that would benefit their health. Lifestyle medicine in nursing is gaining momentum in the USA and could be a nursing leadership opportunity in the UK. This article explores the importance of lifestyle approaches to health care and why nurses have a pivotal role in the movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Specialist stoma care nurses (SSCNs) are highly educated professionals who play a critical role in the care of people living with a stoma. However, they experience some unique challenges. Currently in the UK, stoma care has no national standards, targets or best practice pathway, resulting in significant variation and an undervalued service. As members of an evidence-based profession, SSCNs need to demonstrate their value. Specialist nurses in cancer care and inflammatory bowel disease are supported by nationally, with pathways, targets and standards of care, as well as career and education frameworks. This system could be used for SSCNs. A national approach is needed to develop an evidence-based best-practice pathway, commissioned and implemented across the UK for all stoma patients and with SSCNs at its heart. SSCNs need to demonstrate their value through data and evidence. Working with Getting it Right First Time, a taskforce aims to review the evidence and establish minimum standards of care for all stoma patients. SSCNs should be co-ordinators and drivers of change at the highest level of national innovation, policy and decision-making. The work of SSCNs should be is recognised and valued because what they do matters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postoperative stoma education is an essential aspect of care for all types of stoma formation because having a stoma impacts on every aspect of a person's life. This critical review of the literature explores stoma patients' needs and wants; postoperative education care guidelines; the role of ward link nurses; and care pathways. The findings from this review demonstrate that there is no national standard postoperative stoma care pathway, yet such pathways are a cost-effective means to improve patient outcomes and care. The review also identified that structured care pathways are not a new concept, but there is a lack of formal research to determine best practice in postoperative stoma education. In the UK, there is wide variation in practice and outcomes, which means that effectiveness cannot be accurately measured. The author has developed and implemented a multidisciplinary postoperative education pathway in line with a national need to further refine postoperative stoma care services to meet stoma patients' needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Under-representation of pregnant women, their partners and parents from minority ethnic backgrounds has been reported in research involving the perinatal period. This study's aim was to explore the experiences of parents from minority ethnic groups who participated in research during the perinatal period, focusing on barriers and facilitators to participation. Methods: In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted via Microsoft Teams by all three researchers with a purposive sample of 16 parents. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Seven overarching themes were identified: motivating factors; unique contributions; language, understanding and access; cultural values, beliefs and practices; lack of time and other commitments; facilitators for participation; and experience of the current study. Conclusions: Understanding motivation for participation is essential to developing recruitment strategies that promote involvement of parents from minority ethnic backgrounds. A clear understanding of research goals and perceived benefits, and maximising access to studies, is likely to result in improved recruitment. Implications for practice: Ways to encourage research participation from parents in minority ethnic groups include using a range of advertising techniques and venues, offering a choice of time and place for activities and alternative methods of data collection, and disseminating information on available studies in early pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the highlights of the annual European Wound Management Association (EWMA) conference held in London, England in 2024 with the theme "Making Everyone's Contribution Count." The EWMA and the Leg Club Industry Partners offered a scholarship for clinicians to attend the conference. The event featured presentations about wound management, workshops, e-posters and satellite symposia.

Elder abuse, a pervasive and distressing phenomenon, continues to pose a significant challenge globally, affecting older adults across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. This article provides an overview of the prevalence of elder abuse, highlighting its multifaceted nature, risk factors and the imperative need for intervention and prevention strategies. A synthesis of empirical studies, meta-analyses and reputable sources is used to delineate the prevalence rates and patterns of elder abuse across various geographical regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

General dental practitioners form a vital part of the multidisciplinary team for cleft lip and palate management and their role in treatment and prevention is key to ensuring successful outcomes. This article highlights key dental aspects to be aware of when treating this cohort of patients and summarizes the input of other medical specialties involved in care from birth to adulthood. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Knowledge of the pathway for patients born with cleft lip and palate is fundamental for GDPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is estimated that 17% of the UK population experiences food insecurity, with increasing evidence to suggest a direct link with oral health. As such, dental professionals should be prepared to tailor their advice accordingly to support. At time of writing, there is a paucity of information available about food insecurity and oral health, and methods of support for the dental profession. Therefore, this article provides an overview of the concepts of poverty and food insecurity, and their impact on oral health, as well as presenting actionable suggestions for ways in which the dental team can identify and signpost those needing support. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Awareness of the relationship between dental caries and food insecurity is important to be able to provide tailored advice to patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helen Hurst outlines the Enhanced practice in kidney care: a renal nursing course and the challenges recruiting and retaining nurses in the NHS [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers news briefs related to the dental nursing industry. Topics include Dental Defence Union's call for reform in clinical negligence costs, highlighting the unsustainable nature of current litigation expenses; the disproportionate legal costs in dental negligence claims, the impact on National Health Service resources, and proposals for fixed recoverable costs to address these issues.

Until recently the focus in diabetes care was on managing blood glucose – a glucocentric view. This is changing to a more holistic model aimed at prevention, treatment and management through lifestyle interventions as well as medication. An estimated 5 million people in the UK are living with diabetes, most have type 2 diabetes which is associated with obesity. Type 2 diabetes can be prevented, treated with diet and weight loss, or managed with medication. The number of people with diabetes has reached epidemic proportions. To manage diabetes well and reduce complications of poorly managed diabetes, management of the condition can no longer be restricted to endocrinologists and diabetes specialist nurses. This article provides guidance on how glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists can be used in the management of type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stoma patients require continuous support throughout their entire journey with a stoma. Although many Stoma Care Services across the UK offer patient follow-up pathways, there is not one unified pathway. Patients may not be prepared for life with a stoma because, depending on their stoma type, they will have specific needs, and if patients and healthcare professionals are not prepared to manage these stoma-specific needs, complications and hospital readmissions may occur, worsening patients' outcomes and quality of life. Ileostomy patients are known to be more likely to experience complications, including hospital readmissions, and therefore, special care should be taken when preparing these patients for life with a stoma. They should be informed and educated to prevent complications, and if this is not always possible, thye should at least be able to recognise and manage early signs and symptoms of complications. This will empower them to self-care and know when to seek medical attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic placed a huge strain on healthcare services around the world, including community services. Students also faced substantial disturbance to educational programmes. Student district nurses are usually employed members of staff and can be recalled to the workforce, whereas pre-registration students cannot. Aims: This paper explores the feelings and experiences of student district nurses during the first UK national lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic. An interpretative phenomenological approach was taken. Method: A semi structured 1:1 interview and focus group was held via zoom in July 2020. A total of eight student district nurses, who were all registered adult nurses, took part. Data was analysed using the Braun and Clarke model to identify themes. Results: The findings related to their experience of being a community adult registered nurse on the frontline, while also being a student district nurse. Three themes were identified from the analysis: anxiety and uncertainty, management of risk and teamwork. Conclusion: This study highlights the contribution that community nurses made in the clinical response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It adds to a paucity of literature available from this clinical setting and specifically from the viewpoint of a student district nurse. There is much written on the strains on hospital care, but it should be remembered that district nursing is the service that never shuts its doors because it has reached capacity. This study found that a lack of communication and uncertainty about their future as students contributed to heightened stress and anxiety. Teamwork and camaraderie are a vital aspect of any team and one that can support resilience in times of heightened stress. A lack of face-to-face interaction can lead to team members feeling isolated. Digital technology can be used to reduce this feeling when possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A broad range of health professionals can obtain the authority to prescribe in the UK upon successful completion of an accredited non-medical prescribing programme. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, many approved education institutions have adopted more permanent blended approaches to their programmes. This literature review aims to explore blended approaches to delivering postgraduate education to health professionals, with a view to improving the performance and satisfaction of students undertaking non-medical prescribing programmes. Seven papers were selected from a database search; five were research literature and two practice literature. The results suggest that social constructivism and laying a 'foundation' for effective study are key to student satisfaction. Advising students to engage with the provider's Virtual Learning Environment before a programme commences, dividing students into small groups that are designed to create communities of practice, scheduling face-to-face activities to provide early opportunities for social interaction and further research are recommended to enhance education for non-medical prescribers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on assisted dying, its legislation process and why it might be a political priority for UK lawmakers at this time. The author also raises questions about what the implications of this bill for nurses, particularly community nurses. The article mentions places outside the UK where assisted dying is already a feature of healthcare. 'Bill' or 'bills' should be taken to mean the draft legislation at the time of writing this article; these are subject to revision or even rejection in each jurisdiction either in the short or long term. It is important for nurses to think about the issue in general terms now, as it returns to the political agenda every few years. Nurses need to be able to discuss it professionally as professional standards, training and regulation will change. The questions presented give rise to polarised and strongly held views. It is important to examine any bill from a theoretical standpoint, to provide valid reasons for the position that professional nurses take, for or against these concepts in principle. There are questions of conscience and religious faith, which are challenging, but it is vital to look at the issue in an unemotional manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article highlights developments in the National Health Services (NHS) in Great Britain. Topics mentioned include the health challenges facing the population, a recommendation on health promotion to mange health risks and enhance health outcomes, the legislative change on assisted dying, the strategic plan for the healthcare workforce and the focus of NHS on primary care and community nursing.

The article focuses on NHS Cheshire and Merseyside's initiative to reduce tooth decay in children through the "All Together Smiling Supervised Toothbrushing Programme." Topics include the distribution of dental care packs, the programme's focus on children in deprived areas, and its efforts to raise awareness about tooth decay prevention through education and community partnerships.

Deborah Robertson provides an overview of recently published articles that may be of interest to non-medical prescribers. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reflects on key insights from the 2023 National Acute Kidney Injury Summit hosted by the UK Kidney Association, and highlights the role of the UK Renal Registry in monitoring Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) data and explores the broader implications of AKI on the healthcare system [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article outlines what a patient needs to know about the BK polyomavirus and how it can effect a kidney transplant [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers news briefs related to dental services in the United Kingdom including Carestack's collaboration with the Association of Dental Administrators and Managers to enhance dental practice management, the partnership between Asda and Colgate to distribute free dental kits to schools in deprived areas, and research from the University of Surrey linking sweet food preferences with increased risks of depression, diabetes, and stroke.

This series focuses on aspects of prescribing for neonates, children and young people, from A–Z. Aspects of pharmacokinetics will be considered, alongside legal considerations, consent and medications in schools [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The practice of administering blended food via enteral feeding tubes has been growing in popularity in recent years. Concerns have been raised as this practice was perceived to increase risk of gastrointestinal intolerance, allergic reactions, nutritional insufficiency, tube blockages, and infection compared with using commercial enteral feed (CEF), the gold standard, as well as risk of litigation against the professional due to their support of practice that is not evidence-based. However, research has shown that the physical, social and emotional benefits from receiving blended diet may outweigh the previously suggested risks. Guidance has been updated to encourage discussions around blended diet while informing the tube-fed individuals, families and carers of potential risks, potential benefits, barriers, considerations for training, safety and contraindications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Molar pregnancy is a rare complication of pregnancy. Patients face surgery, human chorionic gonadotropin monitoring and potentially systemic treatment, resulting in unique support needs. This study's aim was to explore the impacts of gestational trophoblastic disease on embodied and emotional experience. Methods: This qualitative study considered stories of molar pregnancy from 20 women in the UK, US, Canada and Australia. These were drawn from 18 publicly available online blogs and eight semi-structured interviews, and analysed thematically. Results: Three themes were developed: 'loss', describing women's responses to their pregnancy ending; 'isolation', comprising 'rarity', 'lack of awareness' and support seeking; and 'alienation', capturing the unfamiliarity of diagnosis, 'failure' and barriers to 'moving forward'. Conclusions: Experiences are shaped by wider narratives of 'typical' pregnancy. Patient care requires an individualised and responsive approach, and non-specialist practitioners should feel confident in discussing molar pregnancy and have access to up-to-date guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article shares the personal account of the author who is living with double incontinence, and the impact this condition can have on the individual and their carers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of cardiac transplants carried out each year within the UK is increasing. With this rise in numbers, it is important that dental professionals are aware of both pre- and post-operative considerations for these patients. This paper considers the practical elements of managing these patients, outlining important aspects of history taking, treatment planning, and safe pain and anxiety management options. CPD/Clinical Relevance: The unilateral sagittal split osteotomy may present an alternative method for removing impacted mandibular third molar teeth in certain situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This year's conference was a huge success with delegates spending 2 days attending varied and important sessions to expand their knowledge [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by a virus that is spread by eating or drinking contaminated food and water or from direct contact (including some types of sexual contact) with an infected person. Hepatitis A virus infection causes liver inflammation that usually results in a mild illness. More rarely, severe symptoms with the potential to develop into liver failure can occur. UK health professionals involved in prescribing hepatitis A vaccines should make sure they are familiar with appropriate vaccine guidance and use current UK hepatitis A vaccine recommendations for international travel as part of their risk assessment. Although most people respond well to the hepatitis A vaccine, the importance of food and water hygiene should still be emphasised to all UK travellers visiting hepatitis A endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]