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.
The role of simulation in delivering a modern workforce
Abstract: The NHS workforce in England faces unprecedented challenges in 2023, including dealing with the backlog of both physical and mental health care caused by the pandemic and the need to create a system of health and care that tackles both health inequalities and other weaknesses. The NHS People Plan 2020/21 was established to outline several priorities and to accommodate the health needs of an ever-changing demographic.
Source: Mitchell A. British Journal of Nursing 2023; 32(8):390-392
Gender Pay Gap Report 2022
Abstract: A report outlining the statistics of the gender pay gap at the Royal College of Nursing, 2022.
Source: Royal College of Nursing (RCN); 2023 [Freely available online]
Mental health nursing: a profession that must be valued (English)
Abstract: Mental health nursing is an extremely diverse field, but a stigma remains around severe and enduring mental ill-health. This, combined with a lack of investment in inpatient services, has contributed to inequalities within mental health service provision. This paper presents a range of recommendations for the Welsh government to improve mental health service provision through investment in education, improved career pathways, workforce planning, and more.
Source: Royal College of Nursing (RCN); 2023 [Freely available online]
Learning the rules of the game: how health and social care students learn to learn
Abstract: Practice placements are essential to pre-registration nurses, midwives and allied health professionals, providing theoretical underpinning and developing professional identity. Professional bodies clearly stipulate the amount of practice required. For example, in the UK, it is 50% of the pre-registered nursing programme (Health and Care Professions Council, 2018; Nursing and Midwifery Council, 2018; Social Work England, 2021).
Source: Knight KH. British Journal of Nursing 2023; 32(9):404-406
Supporting international recruits
Abstract: Having recently joined the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) in my new role, I am confident that all the discussions that are central to our professional agenda are happening at the Council table. The NMC is not responsible for recruitment of professionals to the register – the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has a code of practice for international recruitment to make sure employers recruit ethically.
Source: Foster S. British Journal of Nursing 2023; 32(9):453
Just culture development and patient safety in the NHS
Abstract: Over a working lifetime, most people probably spend more time at work than they do with their families at home. In the employment context, we talk about relationships and the need to maintain them. Some view their colleagues at work as a family, where a breakdown of relationships can take a huge emotional and physical toll on the employee.
Source: Tingle J. British Journal of Nursing 2023; 32(9):448-449
The leadership role and development for the registered nursing associate
Abstract: A significant factor affecting what happens within the workplace is culture. ‘It's the way we do things round here’ is often how people will describe organisational culture. Warrick (2017) likened culture to precious treasures, saying that culture can be an organisation's greatest treasure (asset) and, therefore, it needs to be cared for and nurtured. The role of a leader and their impact on the organisation's culture is one that is widely acknowledged.
Source: Rixon J. British Journal of Nursing 2023; 32(10):484-485
The NMC register: 1 April 2022 – 31 March 2023
Abstract: The number of nurses, midwives and nursing associates registered to practise in the UK has grown to a record total of 788,638. The number of people leaving the professions fell slightly last year to just under 27,000. However, there are concerns about future retention of staff, with 52 percent of professionals who left the register saying they did so earlier than planned.
Source: Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC); 2023 [Freely available online]
Nursing and midwifery national job profile review - evidence report
Abstract: Following a request by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) and the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), the NHS Staff Council’s Job Evaluation Group undertook a review of the national job profiles for nursing and midwifery. The aim of this review is to ensure that these profiles reflect current nursing and midwifery practice and are fit for purpose in all health and care settings. This report is the output from the evidence-gathering stage of the review project.
Source: NHS Staff Council; 2023 [Freely available online]
Navigating cultural competence in district nursing
Abstract: This article aims to provide an outline of key areas for exploration in cultural competence. It will highlight communication, pain, end of life, nutrition and health disparities to consider barriers and challenges for district nursing practice.
Source: Reeve L. British Journal of Community Nursing 2023; 28(7):338-343
The pandemic has ended….
Abstract: While's Words: reflection on WHO's declaration that COVID-19 no longer represents a public health emergency of international concern.
Source: While A. British Journal of Community Nursing 2023; 28(7):318-319
Raising and Escalating Concerns: A guide for nurses, nursing associates, students and health care support workers
Abstract: This resource, aimed at NHS and independent sector nursing staff and student nurses, will support you to raise concerns wherever you work. It includes a decision making flowchart to help staff and students decide whether to raise a concern and when to escalate a concern.
Source: Royal College of Nursing (RCN); 2023 [Freely available online]
Exploring the contribution and impact of master’s education for leadership development in adult general nursing: a scoping review
Abstract: The aim of this scoping review was to explore the evidence relating to master’s education for leadership development in adult/general nurses not in advanced practice or leadership roles and its impact on practice. The importance of effective, clinical leadership in nursing and health care, has been highlighted following failings reported by Public Inquiries both nationally and internationally. While initiatives have been implemented, the provision of safe, quality care remains problematic.
Source: Carson O. Nurse Education in Practice 2023; 71:103697
Valuing the emotions of leadership learning experience in nursing education
Abstract: This paper argues that a greater understanding of the role of emotions in experiencing leadership, the impact of role models and cultures of the workplace and profession, may enable further development for effective leadership development at undergraduate level and beyond. Leadership has gained prominence as a necessary skill in nursing literature and policy, linking its importance to patient safety, working cultures, resilience and emotional labour globally.
Source: James AH. Nurse Education in Practice 2023; 71:103716
Overcoming the nursing workforce crisis in Europe to improve care for people with non-communicable diseases
Abstract: Throughout Europe, poor working conditions and high workloads (Dall'Ora et al, 2020), low pay (OECD and European Union, 2022) and a lack of career opportunities (RCN, 2023) are contributing to high numbers of nurses quitting or considering quitting the profession. A 2020 review of UK working conditions found that public sector nurses had higher levels of stress, greater pressure from staff shortages and double the number of sickness days of those working in the private sector.
Source: Racoviță M. British Journal of Nursing 2023; 32(14):698
Nurse mentors' experiences with suitability assessments in clinical placement: a qualitative study
Abstract: It is the schools’ responsibility to assess students, but mentors play an important role when students are in clinical placements. Clinical placements are typical arenas for assessing suitability. This study aims to explore mentors’ experiences with assessing the suitability of nursing students in clinical placements in a context where suitability assessment is required by law.
Source: Natterøy C. Nurse Education in Practice 2023; 72:103755
Contact the library for a copy of this article
Managing the healthcare support worker workforce post pandemic: the organisational perspective. Part 1/2
Abstract: This article discusses the importance of the HCSW workforce and the continued HCSW contribution to the delivery of high-quality care, which has combined with a growing recognition of the role as a stepping-stone into registered nursing and, therefore, a means of addressing broader recruitment challenges.
Source: Women in Global Health. British Journal of Healthcare Assistants 2023; 17(1): 020–025
Can a simulated window improve the ward environment? A survey of patient, carer and staff perspectives
Abstract: The simulated window was generally viewed positively or neutrally across participant groups, with feedback noting improvements to the technology that would lead to a better experience.
Source: Kawanishi H. British Journal of Healthcare Management 2023; 29(9):252-259
Raising the profile of nurse leadership
Abstract: It is undeniable that being a nurse leader is a role that requires complex skills. I have been reflecting this month, following the recent media reports of significant patient harm, which have been frequently linked to criticism of nursing leadership. This does raise questions regarding what our profession and wider teams need to consider to support those in nursing leadership roles, as well as how we support and encourage aspiring nurse leaders to realise their potential and make a difference.
Source: Foster S. British Journal of Nursing 2023; 32(17):857
Managing the healthcare support worker workforce post-pandemic: the organisational perspective Part 2/2
Abstract: The second of two-parts, this article discusses the importance of the HCSW workforce and the continued HCSW contribution to the delivery of high-quality care, which has combined with a growing recognition of the role as a stepping-stone into registered nursing and, therefore, a means of addressing broader recruitment challenges.
Source: Kessler I. British Journal of Healthcare Assistants 2023; 17(9):326–332
Managing the long-term effects of COVID-19: implications for community nurses
Abstract: The dual impact of supporting those with long COVID in communities, alongside the impact of the pandemic on the workforce is challenging. This is particularly so when pent up demand and fiscal constraints on the NHS and social care exist. The community nursing voice needs to be heard at this critical time as people, families and the health and social care workforce deal with the ongoing impact of an unprecedented pandemic and its legacy.
Source: Kennedy C. British Journal of Community Nursing 2023; 28(10):473
Costs and cost-effectiveness of improved nurse staffing levels and skill mix in acute hospitals: A systematic review
Abstract: Although more evidence on cost-effectiveness is still needed, increases in absolute or relative numbers of registered nurses in general medical and surgical wards have the potential to be highly cost-effective. The preponderance of the evidence suggests that increasing the proportion of registered nurses is associated with improved outcomes and, potentially, reduced net cost.
Source: Griffiths P. International Journal of Nursing Studies 2023; 147:104601
How far I've come: reflecting on my progress after 6 months in the role
Abstract: In her series on the early steps of a newly qualified nurse, Heather George, Critical Care Staff Nurse, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary (heather.george2@nhs.scot), considers how experience is improving her confidence.
Source: George H. British Journal of Nursing 2023; 32(10): 490
Summer reflections and a personal tribute
Abstract: The summer months can be a time for many of us to take a professional breath and reflect on the first half of the year: accomplishments, challenges and the way forward. The schedule of life has never been so full and the world of tissue viability is having an extraordinary year. Whatever your forte, skin health and wound care issues have been at the forefront of nursing practice this year, pioneering innovation, collaboration and campaigns.
Source: Geraghty J. British Journal of Nursing 2023; 32(15): S4
