Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to S Waterworth.
Adopting primary nursing can be a difficult task, involving a great deal of planning, and change for all nursing staff. One haematology ward, however, found it resulted in improved satisfaction for both patients and nurses.
Against the background of the popularity of the concept of 'patient collaboration' in care, this paper describes, from the frame of reference of the patients, how they perceive being involved in decisions concerning their own treatment and nursing care. A convenience sample of 12 patients were selected. The data collection and analysis were informed to some extent by the approach known as grounded theory. Although only 12 in-depth interviews were conducted, one major theme emerged from the data and that was named 'toeing the line'. The data suggests that some patients are more concerned about doing what is right, that is, pleasing the nurse, than participating in decisions concerning care. It is contended that if nurses adopt practices which encourage involvement they may unwittingly coerse patients to comply. It is argued that patients will accept this situation even if they do not wish a collaborative role. Despite the small sample size, interesting questions are raised concerning the underlying rationale of patient involvement. The conclusion is drawn that promoting individualized care is not necessarily synonymous with active patient involvement as advocated in much of the literature.
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An increasing number of children now survive malignancies, which has implications for nursing practice in caring for long-term survivors and their families. This article will examine the physical, psychological and social consequences of surviving childhood cancer and will suggest how nurses can meet the needs of long-term survivors.
Susan Waterworth argues that adopting a research-based model for clinical practice is necessary both to improve standards and to ensure a more informed approach for the delivery of patient care. She outlines the purposes of research in nursing and goes on to describe how clinical practitioners can identify and carry out relevant research topics. A collaborative approach is, she suggests, often the key to addressing problems successfully, and promoting links with a university nursing department may prove beneficial.
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