Articles
Journal: MORTALITY
1. Mourning and loss: Finding meaning in the mourning for Hillsborough
by Brennan, Mike. Mortality, Feb 2008, Vol 13 Issue 1:p1-23
ABSTRACT: This paper focuses on the public mourning following the Hillsborough stadium disaster of 1989. It does so in particular by concentrating on two different sites of analysis: the books of condolence signed in its aftermath and the personal and unexpected reactions of the author following the disaster. Each, it suggests, can be seen as exercises in meaning-making: practical and discursive attempts to make death, as well as loss, intelligible. Mourning in general, and vicarious grief in particular, of the sort occasioned by public disaster, it argues, provide a capaciousness of meaning in which multiple losses may co-exist. Whether symbolic or real, individual or collective, loss of various kinds is routinely, if obliquely and enigmatically, inserted one within the other, the event of death providing an opportunity for loss which has not been properly acknowledged or grieved to come into the open. Deploying a cultural psychoanalysis, the article attempts to unravel the cultural dynamics of mourning, examining processes of identity and identification in ways that (a) are integral to mourning, (b) reveal how meaning is culturally constructed, and (c) provide important clues as to what, or for whom, exactly, the public mourner is mourning.
2. From competence to vulnerability: Care, ethics, and elders from racialized minorities
by Gunaratnam, Yasmin. Mortality, Feb 2008, Vol 13 Issue 1:p24-41
ABSTRACT: This article discusses the care of older people from groups most commonly referred to in the UK as being ‘‘minority ethnic’’. It considers the significance and growing popularity of social policy initiatives aimed at cultural competence in care provided at the end of life. Drawing upon qualitative focus group interviews with 56 health and social care professionals involved in the delivery of palliative care in the UK, this paper examines how the end-of -life care of ‘‘minority ethnic’’ elders is talked about by professionals, highlighting the gaps that can exist between conceptual models and real-world practice. The role and relevance of cultural competence as an ‘‘abstract system’’ (Giddens, 1991) is examined critically and attention is drawn to the ethical potential of professional experiences of vulnerability and of not knowing what to do. It is contended that these components of care are marginalized in current approaches to cultural competence that can discourage engagement with socio-political realities and stifle emotional and moral thinking.
3. "Going down" and "getting deeper": Physical and metaphorical location and movement in relation to death and spiritual care in a Scottish hospice
by Vivat, Bella. Mortality, Feb 2008, Vol 13 Issue 1:p42-64
ABSTRACT: This paper illustrates how attending to the metaphors people use for particular concepts, and to the context in which they use them, can increase our understanding of the meanings they attach to those concepts. It considers two linked emergent findings from an ethnographic exploration of spiritual care in a Scottish hospice: (1) the relationship between the perceived likelihood of palliative care patients’ deaths and their physical location in and movement between various parts of the hospice, and (2) the use of physical metaphors to describe both the increased probability of particular patients’ deaths (‘‘going down’’ or ‘‘going downhill’’), and spiritual care (‘‘getting deeper’’). The paper explores these findings and the relationships between them. It discusses how workers in this hospice located death somewhere other than ‘‘here’’, both physically: in private spaces, and metaphorically: DOWN, which has
strong negative associations. Workers also metaphorically located spirituality elsewhere: DEEP, so that ‘‘getting deeper’’ with patients meant that workers metaphorically accompanied them somewhere else. Although DEEP does not have the negative connotations of DOWN, ‘‘getting deeper’’ might mean encountering distressing, or DOWN, emotions. Many workers sought to counter these negatively perceived emotions by ‘‘cheering up’’ patients, rather than ‘‘getting deeper’’ with them.
4. Family members' perspectives on potential discussions about life prolongation for their older relatives
by Garnett, Dianne et al. Mortality, Feb 2008, Vol 13 Issue 1:p65-81
ABSTRACT: Family members (or health-care confidants) of incapacitated patients are often consulted by doctors when making life-prolongation decisions. Little research has been conducted on confidants’ views on life prolongation and advance care planning. This study investigated the health-care confidant’s view on life prolongation and their involvement in being a potential decision-maker for their relatives in the event of incapacitation. Confidants (N¼12) were interviewed and interviews were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The analysis revealed three themes relating to their perception of being a potential decision-maker for a relative’s life prolonging measures: ‘‘good’’ and ‘‘bad’’ death based on past experience and perceptions of quality of
life, a sense that discussions were inappropriate at present, and strategies which might be used to encourage discussion. The implications of these findings for family involvement in life-prolongation decisions and how to encourage family discussions about life prolongation are discussed.
Journal: CLINICAL JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY NURSING
5.Chemo Brain, Antiestrogens, and Me
by Simmons, Catherine C. Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, Jun 2009, Vol 13 Issue 3:p253-254
Abstract: The author expresses her opinion about the need for patient education on the effects of chemotherapy on cognitive functions, known as chemo brain. She comments on the lack of awareness of research findings. She describes her experience with confusion that she attributes to the use of antiestrogen she received as part of treatment for breast cancer. She believes oncology nurses should inform patients of research findings on chemo brain.
6. The Costs of Cancer
by Mayer, Deborah K & Reiner, Ann. Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, Jun 2009, Vol 13 Issue 3:p255-256
Abstract: The article discusses a report from the health policy organization the Kaiser Family Foundation and the American Cancer Society that examined ways that cancer creates financial burden for families. The report identified factors which leave patients with high healthcare costs. It also identified a lack of affordable insurance options for people who are too ill to work. The author suggests that nurses make referrals for patients having financial or work issues related to cancer.
7. Distance Education: One Solution to the Nursing Shortage?
by Talbert, JeanAnne Johnson. Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, Jun 2009, Vol 13 Issue 3:p269-270
Abstract: The article discusses distant education as a solution to the nursing shortage in the U.S. The advantages of online education are discussed, including flexibility for working students, geographic flexibility, and a wider selection of course offerings. The author suggests that students check that the program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and determine
whether the credits are transferable.
8. Diagnosis, Pathology, Treatment, and Nursing Considerations for Cancer of Unknown Primary
by Winkeljohn, Debra L. Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, Jun 2009, Vol 13 Issue 3:p273-275
Abstract: The article discusses cancer of unknown primary (CUP), its diagnosis, treatment, and considerations for nursing. The identification of the primary tumor with testing of tissue and diagnostic imaging is discussed. Treatment for squamous cell carcinoma and neuroendocrine tumors is also discussed. Responsibilities of oncology nurses are examined, including patient education and helping patients make the transition from treatment to hospice care.
9. Disseminated Varicella-Zoster Virus Infection Following Azacitidine in a Patient With Myelodysplastic Syndrome
by Zhou, Guiyun & Houldin, Arlene D. Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, Jun 2009, Vol 13 Issue 3:p280-284
Abstract: The article discusses reactivated varicella-zoster virus, also known as shingles, in a patient with myelodysplastic syndrome. The incidence, risk factors, pathogenesis, clinical features, and diagnosis of varicella-zoster virus are discussed. Management of the condition with nucleoside analogs such as acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovire is also examined.
10. Managing Toxicities Associated With Colorectal Cancer Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy
by Grenon, Nina N & Chan, Jennifer. Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, Jun 2009, Vol 13 Issue 3:p285-296
Abstract: This article will provide an overview of the principal toxicities associated with commonly used chemotherapy treatment regimens for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) and explore the role of the oncology nurse in the management of treatment-associated toxicity. Although patients with mCRC have benefited considerably from recent therapeutic advances, the use of more complex treatment regimens has inevitably resulted in an increase in treatment-related toxicities. This can ultimately lead to dose reductions, delays, or discontinuation of therapy, which may negatively affect efficacy outcomes. Early identification and treatment of toxicities often can allow treatment to continue as planned or at a lower dose, if required. The oncology nurse is ideally positioned to assist with the timely recognition and management of side effects. This allows therapy to be continued on schedule and at the appropriate dose, enabling patients to achieve a better clinical outcome and maintain or improve their quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Journals – Table of Contents
11. From Nursing Standard - Issue 44, Volume 23, 07 July 2009
EDITORIAL
11A. The cruellest cuts of all [NHS spending will come under scrutiny, and some cuts seem inevitable]
NEWS
11B. Nurses at troubled trust 'should be given chance to speak out'
11C. Maternal mortality group lobbies PM; Complaints against nurses go up but number struck off is down
11D. DH insists pay award will be honoured; NHS Direct turns to band 5 nurses after success in Scotland; 'Fat suit' innovation aids staff training
11E. Opinions split on minimum age for cervical smears; generic community role to be scrapped
11F. Recession forces charity to close, leaving cancer nurses out of work; Health-check drive boosts access to care
11G. 'Emigration of nurses is crippling Africa's embattled health system'
11H. UK ranks highly in 'work happiness' global survey; Antiretroviral programme cuts HIV birth rate in South Africa
ANALYSIS
11I. As healthcare assistants take on more responsibility, should they be regulated?
CLINICAL DIGEST
11J. Medication concordance not caused by social factors; Internal damage to bronchoscopes could pose infection risk; CBT plus medication for initial treatment of insomnia, then CBT; Newborn babies might benefit from having music played to them
11K. Dying in good hands
11L. Anna's living legacy [ten years ago Megs and Bob Wilson lost their daughter to cancer. They talk to Adele Waters about the charity they set up in Anna's name.
11M. Support for the bereaved
11N. A suitable case for treatment [Chronic lymphoedema can be managed simply and effectively]
REFLECTIONS
11O. A genderless cancer [Breast cancer]
READERS PANEL
11P. No MMR, no free education; market-led talking therapies will be too expensive; Patient's cash gift to my mentor made me feel uncomfortable
ART & SCIENCE
11Q. Developing a community matron service: a neighbourhood model[NHS Blackburn with Darwen Provider Services Unit has adopted an innovative team approach to improve patient access to its community matron service]
RESEARCH
11R. Experiences of stress among nurses in acute mental health settings [To explore occupational stressors, the lived experience of stress and the meaning of this experience for staff working in acute mental health care]
CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
11S. Using coaching interventions to develop clinical skills [This article contributes to the development of senior nurse coaching interventions to help colleagues develop their clinical skills. It introduces a practice skill analysis framework as a recommended ...]
LEARNING ZONE ASSESSMENT
11T. Patient assessment
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
11U. The two sides of stress
11V. New roles for nurses at night
11W. Keeping confidence [Confidentiality in health care]
12. From Nursing Times 30 June 2009, Vol 105 No 25
NEWS
12A. Student bursaries face radical reform
12B. Community indicators set out
12C. Scottish government scraps generic community nurse role; Frank Bruno pays tribute to mental healthcare staff; Unions link pay to efficiency
12D. Be prepared for disappointing metrics results, nurses warned; Picture menus improve nutrition in dementia
12E. Competent care at the end of life
12F. Patients need to be provided with real choice in end-of-life care
12G. Implementing quality care indicators and presenting results to engage frontline staff
12H. Exploring NICE guidance on how to manage gastroenteritis in young children under five [A member of the NICE guideline development group highlights the important issues from the latest evidence-based guideline for readers of Nursing Times]
12I. Sitting and pressure ulcers 2: ensuring good posture and other preventive techniques
12J. Productive Ward 2: practical advice to facilitators implementing the programme
12K. Communicating with nurses: patients' views on effective support while on haemodialysis
12L. On how Scotland is using teamwork to tackle swine flu
12M. Our students' dedication is a credit to the profession
12N. Writing for Nursing Times guidelines
Conferences, training and seminars
13. National Maori Cancer Forum 2009
Revolution of Cancer Care for Maori and Whanau
Date: 12-14 August 2009
Venue: The Heritage Hotel Rotorua
Register online: www.maoricancer.co.nz
14. Dignity and Respect in Nursing
A practical guide to delivering compassionate nursing care
Date: 23rd September 2009
Venue: central London
Register now: www.nt-dignity.com
15. Toward the Modern Challenges of Nursing Professional for Sufficiency Health
College of Nursing - Christian University of Thailand
Date: 19th - 20th November 2009
Venue: Amarin Hall S.D. Avenue Hotel Bangkok, Thailand
Register: http://www.christian.ac.th
News – National
16. Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu
Ministry of Health website - July 2009
http://www.moh.govt.nz/influenza-a-h1n1
17.'No fuss' at 102
Miss Gall was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to nursing after managing the children's ward of the Gore Hospital.
http://www.odt.co.nz/the-regions/central-otago/65459/039no-fuss039-102
18. Roxburgh health camp saved
Otago Daily Times - 16 July 2009
Roxburgh Children's Health Camp officials were celebrating last night after a government funding boost staved off the camp's closure and secured more than 40 jobs.
http://www.odt.co.nz/the-regions/central-otago/65465/roxburgh-health-camp-saved
19. IHC admits fault in 2007 death
Otago Daily Times - Wed, 15 Jul 2009
IHC has taken responsibility for the death of intellectually disabled man Lewis Munro, 51, who went missing in dense bush near Te Kuiti in 2007. Waikato coroner Gordon Matenga has reserved his decision following an inquest in Te Kuiti District Court yesterday.
http://www.odt.co.nz/news/national/65356/ihc-admits-fault-2007-death
News - International
20. Flu vaccine 'not ready for months,' WHO chief warns
Sydney Morning Herald - July 16, 2009
The world's top health official said on Wednesday a vaccine to combat the surging swine flu pandemic would not be readily available for months as the number of deaths from the virus spiralled. The comments by World Health Organization chief Margaret Chan came as Australia and Japan reported a surge in cases of the A(H1N1) virus, and Argentina dramatically upped its death toll from 94 to 137 in just three days.
http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-world/flu-vaccine-not-ready-for-months-who-chief-warns-20090716-dloo.html
21. Healthy workplaces 'deserve tax breaks'
Sydney Morning Herald - July 16, 2009
Healthy Australians and their workplaces should be rewarded with tax incentives in a bid to reverse the nation's losing battle against diabetes, a lobby group says. Despite awareness campaigns and pledges from government and industry to address the issue, more than 1.8 million Australians suffer from the disease - with 275 fresh diagnoses every day.
http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/healthy-workplaces-deserve-tax-breaks-20090716-dloq.html
22. Swine flu invades maternity wards
The Age - July 16, 2009
SWINE flu is affecting pregnant women, causing serious illness that in many cases leads to premature birth. Two Victorian women were fighting for their lives in intensive care units last night after recently giving birth with the virus and up to six women are in a similar position in NSW, health authorities said yesterday.
http://www.theage.com.au/national/swine-flu-invades-maternity-wards-20090715-dlhp.html
23. Woman who deceived fertility clinic to give birth to twins dies
The Age - July 16, 2009
A Spanish woman who deceived a US fertility clinic about her age and become the oldest woman to give birth has died at 69, leaving behind two-year-old twins, newspapers reported on Wednesday. Maria del Carmen Bousada gave birth in December 2006 after telling a clinic in Los Angeles that she was 55, the facility's maximum age for single women receiving in-vitro fertilisation.
http://www.theage.com.au/world/woman-who-deceived-fertility-clinic-to-give-birth-to-twins-dies-20090716-dlrb.html
24. "I needed seven courses of chemotherapy'
The Guardian - Tuesday May 26th 2009
Prostate cancer kills one man every hour in the UK, and hundreds of thousands die from male cancers across the globe every year. For this reason, the Everyman charity has named June its Male Cancer Awareness Month. Here, Martin Carter describes how he almost lost his life because he was too embarrassed to report an abnormality in his testicle to his GP
http://www.guardianweekly.co.uk/?page=editorial&id=1086&catID=3