British Journal of Community Nursing最新文献

Optimal management of breast cancer-related lymphoedema (BCRL), a common and debilitating complication of surgery and radiotherapy, depends on early detection, personalised risk assessment and proactive intervention. For instance, a recent review advises healthcare professionals to reframe the narrative about the daily-living skin trauma risks away from 'what to avoid' to 'what to do'. Another review recommends daily, or nearly daily, exercise at home to reduce lymphoedema severity. However, several questions await full answers. There is, for instance, no consensus regarding the most appropriate surgical technique for preventing BCRL. This feature summarises some recent papers updating healthcare professionals about BCRL.

Background: The district nurse is identified as a keyworker in community based palliative care. However, a dearth of research exists on trainees' views and understanding of adopting the role upon qualification.

Aims: The aim of this study was to explore the understanding and perceptions of district nurse trainees in relation to the palliative care key worker role.

Methods: Data was gathered via online semi-structured interviews (n=10) and the results were analysed using a thematic model.

Findings: The four evolving themes included: understanding of the palliative care key worker role scope and function; the level of preparation for the role; a juggling act and embedding the role in practice.

Conclusion: The themes highlighted various drivers and barriers that reflect a degree of incongruence with policy and practice. Recommendations to standardise the palliative care key worker role, underpinned by formal preparation and clearly defined responsibilities may enhance future development and implementation of the role.

Service users living with Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) often delay or avoid seeking diagnosis or treatment because of a fear of judgement or feelings of shame associated with their obsessions and compulsions. They may feel that their behaviour defies societal norms, which can lead to social isolation, and in turn, further contribute to health inequality. When such individuals present with physical illness and are seen by district nurses, it is imperative that behaviours are understood and approached appropriately. It is important to develop therapeutic relationships and consider their holistic wellbeing. Developing a close working relationship with the mental health team as a multidisciplinary team and using the team as a resource may contribute to the overall health outcome of service users with OCD.

Manual lymphatic drainage is an advanced therapy that enhances the movement of lymph via a gentle form of massage. In this article, Sarah Jane Palmer provides an overview of manual lymphatic drainage as a treatment for lymphoedema, and summarises the latest research in the area.

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.

Aysha Mendes provides a synopsis and brief review of a selection of recently published research articles that are of interest to community nurses.

While very much in its infancy in terms of becoming an established tool, the use of digital technology in community nursing is steadily growing, despite the persistent barriers to, and challenges encountered in its uptake and implementation. The mobile nature and high workload of a community nurse's daily practice should facilitate the rapid uptake of time-saving technology. However, there are indications that technology may not be the panacea it was originally proclaimed to be. Francesca Ramadan elaborates on the past and present applications of digital technology in community nursing and delves into the principles that should shape the future potential of tools such as artificial intelligence, automation technologies and clinical decision support systems.