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JULY – DECEMBER 2003 VOL-4, NO.2 CONNECTING RESEARCH FINDINGS TO NURSING PRACTICE * Jan M Nick, Ph.D., RNC ABSTRACT As nurse educators, we must have current evidence about learning theories, we must test hypotheses and refine assumptions of learning. If we call ourselves nurse educators we need to be in touch with the latest trends and implement what is applicable. Nurse educators frequently talk about change and change theory but do they make and attempt to change? We must take the risk to lead. Nursing fully embraces the concept of professional responsibility-to read and analyze research, to conduct research, and to utilize it in our area of expertise…whether we are caring for patients, teaching students, or managing a staff, we all have the responsibility to use the current evidence. We need to reevaluate our actions, to actively search for evidences rather than passively depend on others to give it to us. If nurse educators need to make a change, the change should come from within one self, thus setting an example for others. DEVELOPMENTALLY COMPROMISED * Margret Mahoharan, B.Sc., R.N., R.M., M.Sc (N) ABSTRACT Caring Developmentally Compromised children is a challenge to the Pediatric Nurses. Specialization in Developmental Pediatric Nursing continues to expand as nurses meet the demands of children with special health care needs. This article presents the need for special care, extent of the problem, unique concerns of families and children, the primary responsibilities of the Developmental Pediatric Nurse in assessing and caring for developmentally compromised children. DAY CARE SURGERY – NOW IN VELLORE * Esther Emerson, R.N., R.M., M.Sc (N) ABSTRACT Day Care surgery has become increasingly popular all over the world, and now in Vellore. Most people become anxious at the thought of having to undergo surgery. Staying in the hospital, and setting aside all the responsibilities and life style activities, is an added stress. Fortunately there is now an option available for many patients who need surgery, to spend minimal time in the hospital. This concept is called Day Care Surgery (also known as Ambulatory Surgery or Same Day Surgery). This article throws light on the historical perspectives and technological advances of Day Care Surgery. It explains about how the Day Care Surgery admission, financial implications, nursing care, discharge criteria and follow up are highlighted. It is hoped that this concept will be fully utilized in our country and benefit the patients and society at large. INFORMATIONAL NEEDS OF RECENTLY DIAGNOSED * Chandrani Isac, B.Sc (N)., R.N., R.M., M.Sc (N) ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to review and delineate the informational needs of recently diagnosed cancer patients from the perspectives of the cancer patients, their significant others, health professionals and members of the community. There is an increasing trend towards informing patients of their diagnosis, the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures they undergo, and the prognosis of their disease. This is attributed to: Heightened awareness of patients, due to increased education and media coverage. Growing evidence that educating cancer patient is regarded as an integral part of comprehensive health care. As consumers of healthcare services, patients are considered to have a right to participate in their own care. In view of these trends, medical and nursing practitioners should know the nature, relevance, scope and determining variables of information that recently diagnosed cancer patients need. The design of the study was descriptive. The sample size was 150 and was distributed as 30 from each category of variables. The results showed that there were significant differences in the perceptions of the variables with regard to the informational needs of recently diagnosed cancer patients. This was further verified using chi-square test. A set of guidelines for health professionals has been designed to disseminate information to recently diagnosed cancer patients. CONTINUING EDUCATION SERIES – NO.5 * Bala Seetharaman, R.N., R.M., M.Sc (N) This article is the continuation of previous CE on patho-physiology and assessment of MI (part I). In this article the details of management of MI are discussed. ABSTRACT In most instances of myocardial infarction, the patient suddenly becomes seriously ill, and prompt action is necessary. The goal of medical management is to minimize myocardial damage and thus reduce the probability of complications. Constant observations of the patient are necessary in the acute stage. The overall management of MI is classified as emergency care, intermediate care carried out collaboratively, and specific nursing care with rehabilitative care performed independently.
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