Introducing key papers and publications that focus mainly on the latest news and issues in the nursing profession.
The British Journal of Nursing, Nursing Times, British Journal of Healthcare Assistants, Journal of Perioperative Practice and the British Journal of Midwifery are all either available in print within the library or online via your OpenAthens username and password.Please click on the links below and enter your OpenAthens username and password to download the full text or contact the library at esth.hirsonlibrary@nhs.net to request the full text.
Newly Registered Nursing Associate Guide
Abstract: This updated guide assists student nursing associates in their transition to a registered nursing associate. It includes information on standards of proficiency, advice on registration and revalidation, an overview of preceptorship and further ways in which the RCN can support members with advice on appraisals and wellbeing. Registered nursing associates may also find the guide helpful when revalidating.
Source: Royal College of Nursing (RCN); 2025
The challenges of healthcare regulation using the Letby case as an example
Abstract: This article presents reflections made during the preparation of a research study's data analysis, which focused on the question of processual rigour within the Nursing and Midwifery Council's (NMC) revalidation regulatory approach. The analysis and synthesis have led to reflections on revalidation's utility from the perspective of the identification of the criminal actions of the former nurse, Lucy Letby.
Source: Harrison J. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(12): 645-649
Importance of motivation in reducing the effects of shorter sleep on nurse burnout
Abstract: Commentary on a study in which researchers found that burnout is not solely driven by job demands but rather by a lack of workforce motivation. Longer sleep durations and higher levels of motivation were significantly associated with lower levels of burnout.
Source: De Cordova P B. Evidence-Based Nursing 2025; 28(3): 127
Raising Concerns: a practical guide to raising concerns for registered nurses
Abstract: This document has been developed to help registered nurses identify and communicate concerns about issues which may impact on their ability to deliver safe, effective, and compassionate care to patients, service users and clients in their care and/or within their area of responsibility.
Source: Royal College of Nursing (RCN); 2025
The challenges and needs of international nurses who are assimilating to healthcare systems in the United Kingdom: Experience from the field
Abstract: The paper explores the barriers and enablers for international nurses who are assimilating to new healthcare systems in the United Kingdom and implications for the global healthcare context.
Source: Laing D. International Nursing Review 2025; 72(1): e13078
Four Steps for Raising and Escalating Concerns poster
Abstract: This updated workplace flowchart poster is designed to help staff and students decide whether to raise a concern and when to escalate a concern.
Source: Royal College of Nursing (RCN); 2025
Nursing students’ perceptions of inadequate nurse staffing in the clinical learning environment – a systematic narrative review
Abstract: The aim of this study was to substantiate the perceptions and experiences of nursing students related to nurse understaffing in the clinical learning environment. The quality of the clinical learning environment affects students’ learning experiences, shapes their thinking about the profession and can influence their choice to stay or leave the profession. Understaffing in the clinical learning environment has an adverse impact on patient safety, quality of care outcomes and mortality.
Source: Oshodi T. Nurse Education in Practice 2025; 82: 104221
Advanced clinical practitioners' untapped potential to become managers
Abstract: Leadership and management is one of the four pillars of advanced practice. This study aimed to explore whether ACPs' management responsibilities would support their transition into a clinical management role. This mixed-method narrative literature review uses reflective thematic analysis and a deductive approach to generate themes based on the six critical tasks of a manager mapped to the four pillars of advanced clinical practice.
Source: Addison E. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(3): 174-183
The role of the nurse leader in facilitating effective support and communication to raise concerns
Abstract: This article examines several factors that can affect how raising of concerns can be supported. Nurse leaders play a vital role in this process to maintain patient safety and act accordingly within the Nursing and Midwifery Council Code. Considerations are provided to explore how the nurse leader can facilitate communication with all team members to influence organisational culture, where colleagues feel confident in voicing concerns.
Source: Norman K. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(3): 154-158
Nursing leaders must make a conscientious effort to invest in practices that support evidence-based practice (EBP) among nurses to improve patient outcomes and decrease nursing turnover
Abstract: The study had a 2.3% response rate, with 115 out of 5026 invited chief nurse executives (CNEs)/Chief Nursing Officers (CNOs) completing the survey. Most (78.3%) allocated less than 10% of their budget to evidence-based practice (EBP), and one-third had no budget for EBP. Increased EBP funding was linked to fewer patient falls, less nursing turnover, stronger EBP culture, and better patient outcomes, highlighting the need for more investment in EBP resources.
Source: Powers J. Evidence-Based Nursing 2025;28(1): 6
Illuminating the nursing process as a foundation for merging theory and practice for nursing students' educational experience
Abstract: The study identified two key themes: aligning theory with practice and incorporating a structured understanding of one's professional role. It highlights the importance of integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application through the nursing process. Supervisors play a crucial role in supporting students’ learning, helping them develop independence and understand their professional roles in healthcare settings.
Source: Aitken E. Evidence-Based Nursing 2025; 28(1): 18
The use of long-arm (indirect) supervision for nursing, midwifery and allied health professionals in health and social care settings: A systematic literature review
Abstract: This review highlights the variability in approaches to indirect supervision. Positive perceptions around using indirect supervision in health and social care settings has been widely reported, however further research is warranted to explore this across professions.
Source: Dew R. Nurse Education Today 2025; 144: 106410
Mental health nurses' attribute compromised inpatient care quality chiefly to understaffing
Abstract: Some mental health nurses believe that suboptimal nursing care is being provided in inpatient settings due to understaffing. This contradicts the best available current evidence and should not be a major policy determinant. There is a significant research gap in relation to nurse staffing and diverse indicators of care quality in mental health.
Source: Dickens GL. Evidence-Based Nursing 2025; 28(1): 13
Critical work to grow the nursing workforce
Abstract: Previous columns have shared progress of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) review of undergraduate nursing and midwifery practice learning. The NMC commissioned independent research into students' practice learning requirements in January 2024, with the aim of recognising and acknowledging innovation, and ensuring that NMC requirements continue to equip students with the knowledge and skills to deliver the best possible care for people across a diverse range of care settings.
Source: Foster S. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(4): 260
Student nurses' learning of practical skills in hospital placements: Perspectives of registered nurse mentors
Abstract: The study aimed to gain insights into the perspectives of registered nurse mentors on the practical skill learning of second-year student nurses during hospital placement by examining the mentors’ experiences and expectations. During clinical placement, registered nurse mentors play a crucial supervisory role in student nurses’ practical skill learning. However, a gap exists in understanding the mentors’ perspectives on practical skill learning during placements in hospital environments.
Source: Ravik M. Nurse Education in Practice 2025; 83: 104275
Developing leadership and resilience through early access master’s education for newly graduated, adult nurses: a cross-sectional survey
Abstract: The study aimed to explore the impact of an early access master’s experiential programme on leadership skills and resilience in new graduate nurses. Succession planning for nursing, requires leadership and resilience development in new nurses. Literature suggests that early access to master’s education can produce nurses with the necessary skills.
Source: Carson O. Nurse Education in Practice 2025; 83: 104276
The professional nurse advocate model and use of A-EQUIP: a tool to support the nursing workforce
Abstract: This article explores the role of the professional nurse advocate (PNA) in supporting the nursing workforce through restorative clinical supervision. It outlines the theoretical framework of the A-EQUIP model, which emphasises advocacy, education, quality improvement, and understanding. Initially introduced in midwifery, the PNA role has been expanded to all nursing areas to address issues such as burnout and workforce challenges, particularly those intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Source: Morrell-Scott N. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(4): 242-246
Enhancing advanced clinical practitioners' non-clinical skills
Abstract: This article examines the setting up, running and content of a study day for advanced clinical practitioners (ACPs) at the Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, aimed at enhancing non-clinical competencies in leadership, education and research. Despite a structured national framework, ACPs often report limited support in these areas. The event provided targeted education, encouraged a sense of community, and received positive feedback.
Source: Brooks E. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(4): 208-212
What does the NHS staff survey tell us about the changing behaviours and motivation of health care staff?
Abstract: Over the past decade younger NHS staff have reported lower job satisfaction, higher stress levels, & greater dissatisfaction with pay than their older colleagues, according to this new analysis of over a million NHS staff survey responses. Do these trends reflect changing generational attitudes to work, or are they in fact shaped by wider workforce and societal pressures? By Bea Taylor, Sarah Scobie and Dr Billy Palmer.
Source: The Nuffield Trust; 2025
Involving nurse leaders in strategic health workforce planning: an ICN policy guide – 2025
Abstract: This publication is a practical guide to including nurses in workforce planning decisions. It provides guidance on how to engage nurses in the process and access the knowledge, insight and expertise of the nursing profession to better shape and drive health workforce plans for the entire health workforce.
Source: International Council of Nurses (ICN); 2025
Fixing the Leaking Pipeline: Measures for growing and retaining nursing students, apprentices and early career nursing staff in England
Abstract: In this RCN Policy report we assess the gaps in the domestic nursing supply pipeline which (1) limit the potential output (2) cause nursing students to leave their studies and (3) lead to early career nurses leaving. Based on this, we recommend a package of interventions to fix the pipeline and resolve issues of high attrition and low output.
Source: Royal College of Nursing (RCN); 2025
Growing up in the NHS: a personal story
Abstract: The author writes about her initial interest in healthcare, her growing passion for care and her journey as a maternity support worker and advocate for healthcare assistants.
Source: Swallow. British Journal of Healthcare Assistants 2025;19(3):73-74
The personal and professional impacts of becoming and being a professional nurse advocate
Abstract: The professional nurse advocate (PNA) is a relatively new employer-led role, designed to deploy the A-EQUIP (Advocating and Educating for QUality ImProvement) model of professional nursing leadership and restorative clinical supervision. This article describes the self-perceived personal and professional impacts of becoming and being a PNA
Source: Walker W. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(6): 336-344
Enhancing the retention of newly qualified nurses
Abstract: The retention of newly qualified nurses (NQNs) is a pressing issue in healthcare systems, particularly in high-pressure environments such as acute care. This article explores the key challenges faced by NQNs, including lack of career development opportunities, negative workplace cultures and burnout, all of which contribute to high turnover rates. Strategies such as structured preceptorship and mentorship programmes, emotional wellbeing initiatives, and leadership support are examined.
Source: Burnell G. British Journal of Nursing 2025;34(6):316-319
Experiences of the female nursing higher education workforce: a systematic integrative review
Abstract: Although nursing and midwifery are female-dominated professions, both in clinical practice and in higher education, men are disproportionately represented in leadership and senior positions. The objectives of this review are to explore the lived experiences of the female nursing and midwifery higher education workforce to better understand barriers to progression.
Source: Divers J. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(6): 326-331
Empowering tomorrow's nurses and midwives: transforming undergraduate programmes in responding to evolving healthcare environments
Abstract: Higher Education Institutions must continuously transform and modernise nursing and midwifery curricula, in preparing graduates to meet the demands of evolving healthcare. Enhancing clinical supervision for nursing and midwifery students is crucial in preparing practice-ready graduates.
Further research is needed to examine the implementation, effectiveness and long-term impact of flexible community-based placements and various modes of curriculum delivery, including simulation-based learning.
Source: Markey K. Evidence-Based Nursing 2025;28(2):53
The use of Hazardous Medicinal Products
Abstract: As nursing staff are at risk of exposure to hazardous medicinal products, the RCN wants to see positive action being taken to protect health care workers now and in the future. This position statement outlines the key risks to nurses, highlights the current issues and makes calls on the UK government, the Health and Safety Executive, the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland and other relevant enforcement authorities and employers to take preventative action.
Source: Royal College of Nursing (RCN); 2025
A simulated microaggression session for pre-registration nursing students
Abstract: This article explores the development and implementation of a simulated microaggression training session for second-year nursing students as part of their preparation for clinical practice. The simulation, based on real-world student feedback, aimed to provide experiential learning opportunities for recognising and addressing microaggressions, focusing on race and age as marginalised groups.
Source: Mitchell A. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(7):369-373
Creating Organisational Working Conditions Where Nurses Can Thrive: An International Action Research Study
Abstract: [This international theory-driven multi-site action research programme adopts a longitudinal co-design approach based on principles of appreciative inquiry to develop and implement organisational support for newly qualified nurses. It integrates the Institute for Health Improvement (IHI) Framework for Improving Joy at Work and the Thriving at Work model, both focused on improving the well-being of the healthcare workforce and health service outcomes.
Source: Jacobs S. Nursing Reports 2025; 15(3): 95
Perspectives of Mentors on Mentoring: A Scoping Review of Benefits and Challenges
Abstract: Mentoring is often conceptualized regarding benefits to mentees; however, we must also understand benefits and challenges from the perspectives of mentors. This scoping review describes, and classifies, benefits and challenges of mentoring as described by mentors.
Source: Wisdom JP. The Clinical Teacher 2025; 22(3): e70101
Investing in staff and innovation is crucial to developing service delivery
Abstract: I am delighted to mark my first International Nurses Day as Interim Chief Nursing Officer. I want to take this opportunity to thank all nurses across Scotland working in health and social care for their continued dedication to improving patient outcomes.
Source: Armstrong A. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(9): 454-456
Italian nurses abroad: insights into motivations, challenges, and opportunities
Abstract: This study explored the perceptions and experiences of 244 Italian nurses working abroad. The primary motivations included personal growth, economic dissatisfaction in Italy, and exposure to new cultures. Most participants worked in Europe, particularly England and Germany. Although 71% found the documentation process straightforward, 23% faced adjustment challenges, often citing cultural differences and language barriers. Nurses abroad reported high job satisfaction.
Source: Gazineo D. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(9): 478-487
Embedding successful change through collaboration
Abstract: Pandemics, changing demographics, digital advancements, new treatments and political reforms are among the events and changes that affect the healthcare environment. Although change is an inevitable process, it frequently evokes an array of mixed emotions that may even include resistance from staff. A nurse leader who wants to embed successful change needs to execute change effectively and communicate the vision clearly to the team.
Source: Ali S. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(10): 519-520
Empowering diverse learners through assessment choice in nursing education
Abstract: Universities have been called on to make greater efforts to close attainment gaps among students from diverse backgrounds. Evidence suggests that the way students engage can be significantly influenced by the teaching and learning approaches adopted by academic institutions (Universities UK, 2019). This is especially relevant in nursing education, where the student body is highly diverse, encompassing individuals from different cultural, educational and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Source: Wilcox H. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(10): 521-522
A model for predicting student nurse attrition during pre-registration training: a retrospective observations study using routinely collected administrative data
Abstract: The study aimed to explore historical student data to identify patterns predictive of attrition risk among nursing students and hence train a predictive model of an individuals’ risk of leaving the course. The use of pre-existing university BI systems as reported here can serve as the grounding for an individual, tailored approach to retention strategy rather than an approach built on demographic assessment alone.
Source: Crisp E. Nurse Education in Practice 2025; 85:104377
Navigating a nursing career four years after graduation: a qualitative descriptive study exploring drivers of staying amid wanting to leave
Abstract: The study aimed to explore the lived experience of Early Career Nurses four years post-graduation and identify factors influencing their decision to stay in or leave the profession. The study highlights the need for systemic changes to support Early Career Nurses, including empathetic leadership, adequate training and supportive work environments. Addressing these issues is essential for the wellbeing of Early Career Nurses, for high standards of patient care and for improving retention.
Source: Terry D. Nurse Education in Practice 2025; 85: 104360
A qualitative research evaluation of the 'Leading an Empowered Organisation' programme's impact on nursing
Abstract: This study evaluates the impact of the 'Leading an Empowered Organisation' programme on nursing professionals within a large NHS organisation. Using primary qualitative data from three focus groups, thematic analysis identified four key themes: feeling valued and respected; feeling empowered to challenge self and others; feeling empowered to build capacity in self and others; and creating sustainable networks. The findings highlight the programme's positive impact on participants.
Source: Duggan B. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(11): 570-574
Addressing underachievement in nursing students: the roles of practice assessors and supervisors
Abstract: The roles of nursing practice assessors and supervisors are pivotal in guiding students through clinical practice, ensuring they attain the necessary competencies and professionalism to deliver safe and effective patient care. However, underachievement among nursing students poses challenges that require timely and structured interventions. This article explores the responsibilities of assessors and supervisors in identifying, supporting and, when necessary, failing underperforming students.
Source: Butler S. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(11): 566-569
Intense scrutiny of physician associates continues despite regulation by GMC
Abstract: The NHS is in the midst of a chronic workforce crisis resulting in a cycle of mounting pressures and poor retention. Many countries have sought to develop more cost-effective and sustainable models of health care by educating and employing healthcare personnel with generalist medical skills. In the UK, such roles include physician associates (PAs), advanced nurse practitioners (ANPs) and advanced clinical practitioners (ACPs).
Source: Sturgeon D. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(13): 697-700
'Nursing the nurses': the experiences of professional nurse advocates' application of the A-EQUIP model
Abstract: Using the Advocating for Education and Quality Improvement (A-EQUIP) model, professional nurse advocates are educated to lead the delivery of restorative clinical supervision, helping to support nurses in their professional practice, improving resilience and supporting a positive impact on patient care. This study aimed to explore professional nurse advocates' experiences of implementing the role and using the A-EQUIP model in clinical practice.
Source: Griffiths K. British Journal of Nursing 2025; 34(14): 724-731
ICBs can scrap chief nurse and medic, says NHSE
Abstract: Integrated care boards can now scrap the roles of chief nurse and chief medical officer – despite previous guidance saying they are required – NHS England has indicated. NHSE told HSJ it was “for each ICB to determine which specific roles they require at board level to deliver their core functions”, after saying systems should reduce executive headcounts as part of its “model ICB blueprint”.
Source: HSJ: Health Service Journal 2025; (1 August): 7039765
Contact the library for a copy of this article
Components to include in a program to facilitate the transition of novice nurses in emergency departments: A descriptive qualitative study
Abstract: The aim of this research was to explore the insights of stakeholders regarding the components that should be included in a program to facilitate the transition of novice nurses in emergency departments. It was found that novice nurses working in emergency departments need a comprehensive, formal program for successful transition. When adequately supported, novice nurses may develop positive perceptions of their working environment, increasing job satisfaction and retention.
Source: Mashao K. Nurse Education in Practice 2025; 86: 104396
Management responses to staff speaking up in the NHS: a scoping review
Abstract: Staff speaking up about patient safety concerns is crucial to improving care and learning from mistakes. Poor management responses to speaking up can result in missed opportunities to prevent harm and hinder staff learning. This scoping review explored the literature on managers' responses to staff-raised patient safety concerns in the NHS, identifying key factors that influence these responses and suggesting strategies for improvement.
Source: Ghorbankhani M. British Journal of Healthcare Management 2025;31(8):1-10
