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.
Dimensions of clinical leadership among pre-registration nursing students: a cross-sectional study between two countries
Abstract: This study aimed to explore a) pre-registration students' self-perceptions of clinical leadership behaviours and b) differences in students' self-perceptions of leadership behaviours between two countries (UK and Israel). Effective leadership has been associated with high-quality and compassionate care provision in health and social care contexts. This has led to a common acceptance that teaching leadership in nursing education is essential if students are to develop competencies in this area.
Source: Baron S. Nurse Education in Practice 2024; 79: 104092
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Nursing and Midwifery Council Independent Culture Review
Abstract: The NMC commissioned Nazir Afzal OBE and Rise Associates to carry out an independent review after concerns were raised about the organisation’s culture, including racism and fear of speaking up. The review highlighted safeguarding concerns, and found that people working in the organisation have experienced racism, discrimination and bullying. The NMC accepts the report's recommendations.
Source: Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC); 2024
Exploration of student nurse experiences of being mentored by practice supervisors/assessors in placement settings
Abstract: The Nursing and Midwifery Council changed its standards in 2018 regarding student learning and assessment on placements. Previously, students were allocated a mentor with whom they spent at least 40% of their time and who also assessed them; the new standards brought in the separate roles of practice supervisor and a practice assessor and abolished the 40% minimum, with the student being supported by a wider range of practitioners.
Source: Brand D. British Journal of Nursing 2024; 33(15): 718-712
Support information for international nurses and midwives
Abstract: This page provides a collection of national resources and guidance to support your international nurses and midwives.
Source: NHS Employers; 2024
Practice learning facilitators as roaming assessors
Abstract: 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. Some integrated care systems are exploring the new role of roaming assessor.
Source: Monaghan J. British Journal of Nursing 2024; 33(17): 822-832
Practical evidence-based strategies for nurse retention allow front-line leaders to meet the needs of nurses on their units
Abstract: This study addresses nursing workforce turnover, emphasizing practical strategies to improve nurse retention without costly programs. It highlights job intentions as part of the turnover process which can be influenced by specific workplace factors. A front-line localized approach is advocated focusing on supporting leadership and fostering communication with nursing staff. The study’s person-centred strategies aim to enhance retention, promote positive workplaces and improve patient outcomes.
Source: Woodward K F. Evidence-Based Nursing 2024; 27(4):141
Consultant Nurses: Expert Patient Care
Abstract: Wales needs more consultant nurses. A consultant nurse is an expert nurse that bridges the worlds of clinical practice, research, education, strategy and leadership in order to improve patient care. It is a unique and important nursing role. Through statistics and case studies, this report shows how consultant nurses directly benefit patients as well as health services, setting out five practical actions for the Welsh government to take.
Source: Royal College of Nursing (RCN); 2024
What drives unprofessional behaviour in healthcare?
Abstract: Researchers found that unprofessional behaviour such as rudeness or bullying may become embedded in the workplace when staff are disempowered, teams lack cohesion, and managers are unaware of the behaviour.
The researchers suggest that improved working conditions and staff collaboration could reduce unprofessional behaviour in healthcare. They hope their findings will encourage healthcare organisations to tackle unprofessional behaviour.
Source: National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR); 2024
Be prepared for future pandemics
Abstract: Reflects on recent evidence at the COVID-19 inquiry and implications for palliative care in the community.
Source: Smyth D. British Journal of Community Nursing 2024; 29(11): 518-519
Nursing in Numbers 2024
Abstract: Published annually, Nursing in Numbers sets out the strengths and vulnerabilities of the nursing workforce in Wales in one useful reference, with recommendations for Welsh Government action. The NHS workforce statistics include our annual estimate of the total registered nurse vacancies in NHS Wales. The report also covers the independent sector workforce, with information on social care, general practice, and agency nursing.
Source: Royal College of Nursing (RCN); 2024
Nurses' and midwives' perception of the leadership skills and attributes required of future leaders
Abstract: This study aimed to identify the skills and knowledge future nurse and midwife leaders might require in the next 6 years. An online questionnaire elicited health professionals' perspectives on the future requirements for nurse and midwife leaders. Qualitative data were generated in response on health care and the likely leadership skills for the future. Data were extracted and analysed using qualitative content analysis.
Source: Bond C. British Journal of Nursing 2024; 33(20): 984-992
System-level changes are essential to improve the psychological wellbeing of NHS staff
Abstract: Researchers reviewed the literature to investigate the causes of psychological ill-health (stress and anxiety, for instance) among nurses, midwives and paramedics.
Source: National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR); 2024
The history of pay in the NHS
Abstract: Pay in the NHS has a long history that spans several decades and has remained a prominent issue since the NHS was first established in 1948.
Source: NHS Employers; 2024
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
The potential impacts of additional advanced practice regulation on internationally educated nurses and midwives in the UK: final report
Abstract: This study from the Florence Nightingale Foundation, commissioned by the NMC, shows that advanced nursing and midwifery talent is being lost within the health and social care system. Findings show that internationally educated professionals struggle to have their expertise recognised, but regulatory changes could transform the landscape for nurses and midwives practising at an advanced level.
Source: Florence Nightingale Foundation; 2024
Effects of advanced practice nurses on health-care costs, quality of care, and patient well-being: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Abstract: Integrating advanced practice nurses into health-care settings contributes to reducing health-care cost, improving quality of care, and enhancing patient well-being. This meta-analysis provides evidence supporting advanced practice nurses, reinforcing their vital role in the health-care system and highlighting the need for initiatives and advocacy to enhance their scope of practice and promote advanced education.
Source: Fajarini M. International Journal of Nursing Studies 2024; 162: 104953
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A network analysis of self-compassion and burnout in a sample of nurses
Abstract: Background: In the nursing profession, the concept of self-compassion has been associated with burnout. However, to date, the fine-grained relationships between different dimensions of self-compassion and symptoms of burnout have not been investigated. Network analysis provides a new avenue for exploring the fine-grained correlation paths of two related variables.
Aim: To analyse the nuanced associations between self-compassion and burnout using network analysis in a large cohort of Chinese nurses.
Design: A cross-sectional multi-centre survey design study.
Methods: Participants were recruited from 30 hospitals in China between April and May 2022. These nurses completed the Chinese Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey (C-MBI-GS) and Self-Compassion Scale-Short Form (SCS-SF). Network analysis was performed to illustrate the complex nuanced relationships between self-compassion and burnout.
Results: A total of 1467 nurses (age 32.2 [18–56] years; 89.9% were female) participated in the study. Nodes Mindfulness and Isolation had the highest centralities measured by strength. Nodes Mindfulness, reduced personal accomplishment and Isolation were the most negative and positive influential nodes that bridged self-compassion and burnout. There were no differences in terms of gender, age, professional title and job tenure in the structure or connectivity of the self-compassion and burnout network.
Conclusion: Different components of self-compassion were specifically associated with different dimensions of burnout in registered nurses. Among these, Mindfulness, Isolation and Reduced personal accomplishment were the three most important components of self-compassion for burnout symptoms.
Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or public contribution.
Impact: Understanding the intricate connections between self-compassion and burnout will allow hospital administrators to prioritize the elements of Mindfulness and Isolation within self-compassion and the dimension of Reduced personal accomplishment within burnout when designing preventative measures and interventions aimed at reducing nurse burnout.
Source: Liu C. Journal of Advanced Nursing 2024, Online ahead of print
Comparison of the Achieved and Expected Competence Level of New Graduate Nurses: Two Cross-Sectional Studies
Abstract: Aim: To explore and compare the self-perceived competence level of new graduate nurses with the expected competence level that nurse managers believe new graduate nurses should have in general.
Design: Two cross-sectional empirical studies.
Methods: Two independent cross-sectional studies were carried out in 12 tertiary hospitals in September 2020 and November 2021, respectively. Participants were 1017 new graduate nurses with less than 2 years of work experience and 306 nurse managers who completed an online survey.
Results: The score of self-perceived nursing competence of new graduate nurses was 74.77 ± 14.35, and the expectation of nurse managers was 74.21 ± 15.04. The values of 18 items were significantly different between the two of them (p < 0.05), and there were only three items showed higher expectations of nurse managers than the self-rated values of new graduate nurses. Results of latent profile analysis revealed that this cohort of new graduate nurses could be divided into three subgroups, named risky competent (11.1%), medium competent (46.0%) and advanced competent (42.9%). When comparing, the nurse managers' expected competence level was between the value of ‘medium competent’ group and ‘advanced competent’ group.
Conclusions: Our study adopted a dual perspective comparison of nurse managers and new graduate nurses, which broke through the limitations of the previous single perspective study of new graduate nurses' nursing competence.
Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care: This study highlights the importance of the consistency in new graduate nurses' nursing competence from the perspectives of new graduate nurses and nurse managers.
Impact: This study showed a generally good match of actual nursing competence level of new graduate nurses and the expected level from nurse managers. While there was significant individual heterogeneity in the competence score of new graduate nurses, three subgroups were identified through the individual-centred analysis of latent profile analysis. Therefore, Nurse managers need to systematically adjust the standardized training programs and teaching methods for new graduate nurses according to the population characteristics and take precise interventions to improve nursing competence of new graduate nurses.
Reporting Method: We adhered to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines.
Patient or Public Contribution: No Patient or Public Contribution.
Source: Wu J. Journal of Advanced Nursing 2024, Online ahead of print
International Nurse Migration Experience of the First Two Years: A Mixed Methods Study
Abstract: Aim: The aim of this study was to explore experiences of internationally educated nurses' first 2 years working and living in England in an age of contemporary migration.
Design: Exploratory mixed method design.
Methods: An online survey collected responses from August 2022 to October 2022. A mixed-methods approach was applied to gain a breadth of understanding through quantitative outcomes integrated with depth of qualitative analysis.
Results: Data findings from 773 international nurses identified the recognition of prior professional skills and experiences, induction processes, career development systems and the role of line managers are integral to professional integration and could be improved. Communication barriers were frequently transient and time limited, and participants often had incomplete insight of human resource policies. Personal factors affecting life outside of work revealed compromise and sacrifice with accommodation choices, and participants were often not satisfied with their economic status, housing, cost of living in England, and social support. Mental well-being scores varied by country of origin and participants happier with decision to migrate to England had significantly higher mental well-being scores.
Conclusion: International nurses have divergent professional and personal motivations for migration unique to individual circumstances. Recognition for transferable skills and experience, receipt of a comprehensive and warm welcome from organisations, safe and well-maintained suitable accommodation and living conveniently located to shops, work and transportation, improve experience. International nurses must have sufficient financial gains from salaries and opportunity to unite with children and families.
Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care: Progressing migration experience of international nurses can improve retention and augment improving patient care and outcomes.
Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or members of public contributed to this research.
Source: Pressley C. Journal of Advanced Nursing 2024, Online ahead of print
The journey of nurse prescribing
Abstract: A snapshot of the evolution of nurse prescribing with Linda Mather.
Source: Mather L. Journal of Aesthetic Nursing 2024, Online ahead of print
Integrated clinical academic careers
Abstract: In this month's editorial, Joanna Lavery and Nicola Morrell-Scott shed light on integrated clinical academic roles and how they might contribute to cardiology, patient care and the evolution of nursing.
Source: Lavery J. British Journal of Cardiac 2024, 19(11): 1-4
Neurodiversity & nursing: Reflection of a final year general nursing student
Abstract: Autism Spectrum Disorder is neurodevelopmental disorder, the manifestations of which and levels of support individuals may require vary greatly. Although there is a plethora of information regarding supporting autistic individuals in higher education and the workplace, there is a paucity of information regarding both autistic nurses and nursing students. This paper presents an overview of autism spectrum disorder, the particular features of which are relevant in nursing professions and in the context of higher education; and highlights issues surrounding disclosure and implementing reasonable accommodations. It concludes with a reflection of the author's experience as an autistic nursing student.
Source: White James F. Nurse Education Today 2024, 141: 106318
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Digital ethical reflection in home nursing care: Nurse leaders' and nurses' experiences
Abstract: Background: Nurse leaders increasingly need effective tools that facilitate the prioritisation of ethics and help staff navigate ethical challenges and prevent moral distress. This study examined experiences with a new digital tool for ethical reflection, tailored to improve the capabilities of both leaders and employees in the context of municipal long-term care.
Aim: The aim was to explore the experiences of nurse leaders and nurses in using Digital Ethical Reflection as a tool for ethics work in home nursing care.
Research design: The study employed a qualitative design, incorporating individual and focus group interviews for data collection. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse the data.
Participants and research context: The participants comprised six nurse leaders and 13 nurses, representing six home care zones across two Norwegian municipalities.
Ethical considerations: The study involved informed, voluntary participation and was approved by the Norwegian Agency for Shared Services in Education and Research.
Findings: Four themes were developed: a constant walk on the edge between engagement and discouragement and lost in translation describe the process, while tuning in to the ethical dimension and navigating ethical uncertainties illuminate the experienced significance of Digital Ethical Reflection.
Conclusion: Success with Digital Ethical Reflection in home nursing care depends on clear leadership planning, nurses' understanding of the tool's purpose, and active use of digital registrations. Support from ethically interested nurses enhances overall engagement. Further research is needed to explore the potential of Digital Ethical Reflection as an additional tool in long-term care ethics work.
Source: Jakobsen L. Nursing Ethics 2024, 12: 9697330241244543
How to reflect on clinical practice
Abstract: This 'How to' article explains how to reflect on clinical practice using reflection-on-action and a reflective model to help ensure the nurse gains comprehensive learning from an experience or incident to enhance their professional development and patient care. • Reflection is a vital element of nursing practice and has a wide-ranging purpose including, for example, self-inquiry into experiences to find meaning, gain insight and prompt action, recognition of emotional responses to care situations and exploring wider issues, such as healthcare culture. • Reflection-on-action involves a retrospective critical exploration of an experience or incident to identify learning points and may be engaged in alone, with one other person, for example during clinical supervision, or in a group activity. • There are a range of reflective models that can be used to structure a reflection, the main components of which generally include a description of the event, reflection on its meaning and identification of learning. REFLECTIVE ACTIVITY: 'How to' articles can help to update your practice and ensure it remains evidence based. Apply this article to your practice. Reflect on and write a short account of: • How this article might improve your practice when using reflective techniques. • How you could use this information to educate nursing students or your colleagues on the appropriate methods for reflecting on clinical practice.
Source: Lucas B. Nursing Standard 2024, 39(9): 35-39
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Axiological reflection for nursing ethics education: The missing link in understanding value conflicts
Abstract: Texts from various areas of the world highlight the importance of moral values like compassion and integrity in healthcare. Such values are held in high esteem by healthcare organisations and are actively 'taught' within nursing ethics education to ensure their presence within the future workforce. With such an emphasis, it is easy to overlook that moral values are not the only values that people, including nurses, hold. Other personal values - which may or may not conflict with moral values - are simultaneously present within individuals. Therefore, moral behaviour cannot be predicted solely by the presence/absence of certain moral values. Instead, it depends on how these integrate into an individual's broader values system. Using Schwartz's axiological Theory of Basic Human Values as a framework, I argue that moral values are but one part of an individual's greater personal values spectrum, which also includes, for instance, hedonism, achievement, and power. Within this spectrum, values are ordered hierarchically, influencing behaviour based on relative priority. When a conflict arises between moral and other personal values, the prioritisation of moral values is a requirement for moral behaviour.I discuss how socialisation in suboptimal clinical practice environments can cause moral values to be deprioritised and argue that the development of practical reasoning skills is paramount to learning to balance one's values and guide decision-making. I advocate for the integration of (meta-)axiological reflection - characterised by introspection and aimed at developing a deeper understanding of one's personal values spectrum - within nursing ethics education. This involves exploring the origin, meaning, and perceived relative importance of one's different personal values. By incorporating specific reflective exercises, students can increase self-awareness/insight and enhance their ability to recognise situations where conflicts between their moral values and other personal values may occur, which is likely to benefit moral decision-making in clinical practice.
Source: Groothuizen J E. Nursing Ethics 2024, 24: 9697330241295369
The Essentials of Debriefing and Reflective Practice
Abstract: Debriefing is a specific type of reflective learning. Debriefing follows an experience, with the goal of taking meaningful learning away from the experience. It is often used following a simulation-based educational experience but the same techniques can be used following actual clinical care. Early studies in simulation suggest that learning does not occur in simulation-based education in the absence of debriefing. There are phases of a debriefing discussion and specific conversational strategies that are used to engage learners and provoke engaging learning discussions. Standards of practice call for facilitators with specialized training and a debriefing method that is theory based.
Source: Fey M K. Journal of Nursing Clinics of North America 2024, 59(3): 391-400
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From self-reflection to shared recognition: Reconceptualising mental health nursing as an intersubjective phenomenon
Abstract: Existing challenges to the legitimacy of mental health nursing in the United Kingdom and beyond have stimulated a critical self-reflection and discourse around the mental health nursing role, forcing the profession to question its identity and critically re-evaluate its position within the wider healthcare arena. In this discussion paper, I suggest that the current difficulties in conceptualising mental health nurse identity arise from our role being inherently interwoven with distinctive challenges and unique needs of our service users. Emerging from this idea is that the ‘being’ (and the ‘doing’) of mental health nursing is firmly situated within the sphere of intersubjective relations. Drawing upon Hegel's ideas of reciprocal recognitive relations, to support the notion that our profession's role and purpose are better understood when defined in relation to the work that we do with our service users, I argue that it is in the understanding (and even embracing) of intersubjectivity as a core principle of mental health nursing, where we might not just better understand ourselves but also know how to shift asymmetric relations with our service users towards those which are more commensurate and mutually beneficial.
Source: Haslam M. Nursing Inquiry 2024, 31(4): e12675
