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Management of haemorrhage and haemorrhagic shock
Haemorrhage is defined as the acute loss of blood from the circulating volume, while haemorrhagic shock is characterised by suboptimal perfusion caused by bleeding. Their prompt recognition and management is vital to ensure optimal outcomes. This article discusses the assessment and management of pa...
Updated: 18 January 2023 -
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Care of patients undergoing the removal of an indwelling urinary catheter
An indwelling urinary (Foley) catheter may be used in the management of various urological conditions, such as intractable incontinence and urinary retention, or as part of treatment regimens such as chemotherapy. Although some catheters may be required for long-term use, healthcare practitioners sh...
Updated: 16 November 2023 -
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Respiratory assessment: undertaking a physical examination of the chest in adults
Nurses frequently encounter patients in respiratory distress or with respiratory complications, whether from acute disease or a long-term condition. A physical examination of the chest should be conducted as part of a comprehensive respiratory assessment of the patient, and should follow a systemati...
Updated: 22 November 2023 -
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Understanding the elements of a holistic wound assessment
Wounds have become a significant public health challenge and consume a large amount of healthcare resources. Wounds can have severe negative effects on patients’ quality of life, causing psychological and social distress, and may lead to significant periods of lost employment, resulting in financial...
Updated: 16 November 2023 -
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Understanding the basic assessment and treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms in older women
Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are prevalent in older women. These symptoms are often under-reported due to the potentially embarrassing nature of the symptoms and a belief that they are an inevitable consequence of ageing. LUTS such as urinary incontinence have a significant negative effect on...
Updated: 22 November 2023 -
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Importance of reflection in revalidation
Reflection is a hallmark of professional practice and an important element of the Nursing and Midwifery Council revalidation process. Following two previous continuing professional development articles, on reflection and professional learning and on reflection and personal learning, this article wil...
Updated: 1 November 2023 -
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Cardiac pacing: principles, interventions and patient support
Cardiac pacing is used to treat a variety of heart rhythm irregularities or arrhythmias, most commonly bradyarrhythmia, which is characterised by an abnormally slow heart rate. Temporary and permanent pacemakers work by sending intermittent electric impulses to the heart muscle, stimulating it to co...
Updated: 18 January 2023 -
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Identifying people with deteriorating mental health using a mental state assessment
Research indicates that approximately one in six people will experience a common mental health condition such as depression or anxiety, while people with severe mental illness commonly experience significant health inequalities. Nurses will come into frequent contact with people experiencing mental ...
Updated: 22 November 2023 -
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Understanding nurses’ responsibilities in promoting equality and diversity
Nurses have a duty to promote the values of equality and diversity during their interactions with patients and their families and carers, as well as peers and colleagues. This article defines the terms equality, diversity and inclusion, and explains the importance of the Equality Act 2010 and the Hu...
Updated: 22 November 2023 -
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Understanding equality and diversity in nursing practice
Equality and diversity are terms that are used frequently in nursing, healthcare and workplace settings. Nurses’ professional standards of practice and behaviour are underpinned by values of equality and diversity. This means that nurses must treat people as individuals, avoid making assumptions abo...
Updated: 19 January 2023
