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ABSTRACT: The aim of this pilot study was to examine the relationship between structural empowerment and anticipated turnover among behavioural health nurses.
There have been several studies relating structural empowerment to a range of organizational characteristics and personal attributes of nurses themselves. There are also previous studies linking the key variables in the present study, but no previous research of behavioural health nurses was available.
A quantitative design was used for this cross-sectional pilot study. All registered nurses (RN) working on inpatient units in the study facility were invited to participate (n = 97). An anonymous survey was sent to all potential participants.
The response rate was 53% (n = 50). The majority of participants perceived themselves as moderately empowered. There was a significant negative correlation between empowerment and anticipated turnover.
The results of this pilot study among behavioural health nurses are similar to the results among nurses working in other clinical areas.
Nurse managers should be cognizant of the factors that enhance nurses' perceptions of empowerment, particularly related to issues of retention and anticipated turnover among behavioural health nurses.
Journal of Nursing Management 07/2012; 20(5):679-84. · 1.18 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Although there has been previous research linking perceptions of empowerment to specialty certification among critical care nurses, no research in this area has been conducted among nationally certified perinatal nurses.
A comparative quantitative survey design was used. Participants included 80 perinatal registered nurses from one community hospital in New York.
Registered nurses who were nationally certified in a perinatal specialty had higher total empowerment scores and higher scores on five of the six subscales.
This study supports the results of previous studies focused on differences in empowerment among nationally certified nurses and nurses without national certification. Because much of the preparation for certification is done within continuing education, nurse leaders must be cognizant of the value of certification and must develop and implement programs to support certification in the workplace.
The Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing 03/2012; 43(10):463-6. · 1.05 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: The clinical application of genetic advances has the potential to transform preconception and pregnancy care and improve pregnancy outcomes. The study aim was to evaluate the level of importance and level of confidence that midwives in the United States attach to using genetics in practice.
The study was a descriptive, cross-sectional, online survey with a convenience sample of certified nurse-midwives who were active members of the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) and provided midwifery care in the United States. The survey contained genetic case studies and questions related to genetic activities that occur in clinical practice. Participants were asked to rate how important each genetic activity is to midwifery practice generally and their personal level of confidence in carrying out the stated activity at the present time; questions were rated on a Likert-type scale of 1 (not at all important, not at all confident) to 4 (essential, confident to teach).
There were 612 survey responses from among the 4244 active members of ACNM (14.42%). Most midwives believed that genetics-related activities were very important or essential to their clinical practices, but they were only moderately confident in their abilities to perform these activities. The average importance survey score was 88%, and the average confidence survey score was 70%. Some midwives (17.5%) thought that taking a 3-generation family history was essential, and some midwives (20.9%) were extremely confident in their abilities to perform this activity. Almost all midwives (98.5%) indicated that they wanted to learn more about genetics and genomics.
Genetics education programs need to be developed and made available to midwives to increase their confidence levels in using genetics in clinical practice.
Journal of midwifery & women's health 03/2012; 57(2):114-9. · 1.13 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: To prepare the next generation of nurses, faculty are now faced with the challenge of incorporating genomics into curricula. Here we discuss how to meet this challenge.
Steps to initiate curricular changes to include genomics are presented along with a discussion on creating a genomic curriculum thread versus a standalone course. Ideas for use of print material and technology on genomic topics are also presented. Information is based on review of the literature and curriculum change efforts by the authors.
In recognition of advances in genomics, the nursing profession is increasing an emphasis on the integration of genomics into professional practice and educational standards. Incorporating genomics into nurses' practices begins with changes in our undergraduate curricula. Information given in didactic courses should be reinforced in clinical practica, and Internet-based tools such as WebQuest, Second Life, and wikis offer attractive, up-to-date platforms to deliver this now crucial content.
To provide information that may assist faculty to prepare the next generation of nurses to practice using genomics.
Journal of Nursing Scholarship 09/2011; 43(3):223-30. · 1.49 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: This descriptive pilot study explored the knowledge and attitudes of African-American males toward genetic testing and their willingness to participate in genetic testing. A convenience sample of 104 African-American males, from 19 to 79 years of age, was recruited from a national fraternity meeting. Data were collected using four surveys: Demographic and Background Data, Perceived Knowledge of Genetic Testing, Attitudes Toward Genetic Testing, and Willingness to Participate in Genetic Testing. Perceived genetic knowledge was low with a mean score of 5.6; however, participants had a favorable attitude toward genetic testing. Findings from this study suggested that participants were willing to participate in genetic testing with a total score of 46.8. Significant correlations existed between perceived genetic knowledge and willingness to participate in genetic testing. Interventions to increase perceived genetic knowledge and educate the participant on who is conducting the test and how the test will be performed may be beneficial to increase participation in genetic testing.
Journal of National Black Nurses' Association: JNBNA 07/2011; 22(1):1-7.
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ABSTRACT: Self-transcendence, the ability to expand one's relationship to others and the environment, has been found to provide hope which helps a person adapt and cope with illness. Spiritual well-being, the perception of health and wholeness, can boost self-confidence and self esteem. The purpose of this descriptive correlational study was to describe the relationship between self-transcendence and spiritual well-being in adult Amish. A random sample of Old Order Amish was surveyed by postal mail; there were 134 respondents. Two valid and reliable questionnaires were used to measure the key variables. The participants had high levels of self-transcendence and spiritual well-being and there was a statistically significant positive relationship between the two variables. The findings from this study will increase nurses' awareness of the holistic nature of the Amish beliefs and assist nurses in serving this population. Additional research is needed to develop further understanding of the study variables among the Amish.
Journal of Holistic Nursing 06/2011; 29(2):91-7.
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ABSTRACT: Some scholars have proposed that the educational preparation of nurses can be improved by incorporating emotional intelligence lessons into the nursing curricula. However, the relationship between emotional intelligence and nursing performance in nursing students is unknown. The purpose of the study was to examine this relationship among nursing students. A descriptive correlational design with non-probability sampling methods of 87 nursing students in a university setting was conducted. The variables of focus were emotional intelligence and nursing performance. Emotional intelligence was measured with the Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test (MSCEIT). Nursing performance was measured using the Six Dimension Scale of Nursing Performance (6-D Scale). The sample was predominately Caucasian (91%), female (93%), mean age 24 years. The mean score for emotional intelligence was 0.53, SD ± 0.06 indicating moderate emotional intelligence. The mean score for nursing performance was 3.14, SD ± 0.40 indicating moderate nursing performance. Emotional intelligence was related to nursing performance. Four of the six nursing performance subscale scores were significantly correlated with the total emotional intelligence scores. Implications for nursing education and clinical practice are discussed.
Nurse education today 05/2011; 31(4):396-401. · 0.91 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: This study examines the relationship between perceptions of structural empowerment and anticipated turnover among critical care nurses.
The literature revealed that work environments that provide access to information, resources, support and opportunity create an environment of more satisfied employees, ultimately reducing turnover.
A sample of 257 nurses completed a background data questionnaire, the Conditions of Work Effectiveness Questionnaire-II (CWEQ-II) and the Anticipated Turnover Scale (ATS).
Nurses in five critical care units perceive themselves to be moderately empowered. Structural empowerment was inversely related to anticipated turnover; those who were more empowered had a lower anticipated turnover score.
Nurses who perceive themselves as empowered have higher levels of organizational commitment. Organizations that support and recognize these characteristics may experience improved retention rates.
This study is the first to demonstrate a relationship between structural empowerment and anticipated turnover among critical care nurses. Research has demonstrated that workplace behaviours and attitudes are determined by social structures within the workplace. Nurses are responsible for a large portion of health care provided in this country. A serious nursing shortage is expected in the future and will exert pressure on both the supply and the demand of nurses.
Journal of Nursing Management 03/2011; 19(2):269-76. · 1.18 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: This descriptive study was designed to investigate the relationship between nurse practitioners' (NPs) perceptions of collaboration with physician colleagues and level of autonomy NP practice.
A convenience sample of 99 NPs attending a national clinical conference completed the Dempster Practice Behavior Scale (DPBS) and the Collaborative Practice Scale modified for advanced practice nurses.
NPs rated both their perceptions of collaboration with physician colleagues and levels of autonomy as high. Yet, there was no significant correlation between these variables.
Collaboration between NPs and physician colleagues is said to improve the quality and cost of health outcomes and also leads to professional satisfaction. Further research into the relationships between collaboration and autonomy are necessary to understand these complex concepts.
Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners 01/2011; 23(1):51-7. · 0.82 Impact Factor
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Mary Margaret Maylone DNP, CRNP, AOCNP (Nurse Practitioner,
FNP-BC (Nurse Practitioner) LeeAnn Ranieri DNP,
RN (Assistant Professor) Mary T. Quinn Griffin PhD,
Rita McNulty DNP, RN, CNP (Assistant Professor,
Joyce J. Fitzpatrick PhD, RN, FAAN (Professor,
Mary Margaret Maylone,
LeeAnn Ranieri, Mary T. Quinn Griffin,
Rita McNulty,
Joyce J. Fitzpatrick
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ABSTRACT: Purpose: This descriptive study was designed to investigate the relationship between nurse practitioners' (NPs) perceptions of collaboration with physician colleagues and level of autonomy NP practice.Data sources: A convenience sample of 99 NPs attending a national clinical conference completed the Dempster Practice Behavior Scale (DPBS) and the Collaborative Practice Scale modified for advanced practice nurses.Conclusions: NPs rated both their perceptions of collaboration with physician colleagues and levels of autonomy as high. Yet, there was no significant correlation between these variables.Implications for practice: Collaboration between NPs and physician colleagues is said to improve the quality and cost of health outcomes and also leads to professional satisfaction. Further research into the relationships between collaboration and autonomy are necessary to understand these complex concepts.
Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners 12/2010; 23(1):51 - 57. · 0.82 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to identify the demands of immigration among Chinese nurses that have immigrated to the USA. The relationship between the demands of immigration and length of stay in the USA was investigated also. A descriptive correlational study design was used. A convenience sample of 128 nurses was recruited. A self-administered survey was conducted using the demands of immigration scale developed by Aroian, along with a demographic questionnaire. The results showed Chinese immigrant nurses have high demands of immigration. There were significant negative relationships between the demands of immigration and length of stay in the USA. Immigration demands decreased as length of stay increased but remained high even for those who had been in the USA for > 5 years. This information is vital to health-care agencies designing and implementing adaptation programmes targeting these demands to facilitate Chinese nurses' adaptation process.
International Journal of Nursing Practice 10/2010; 16(5):443-53. · 0.72 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: The present exploratory study was designed to examine the relationship between resilience and job satisfaction in psychiatric nurses working in inpatient units in a large, urban medical centre. The long range goal was to understand the dimensions of job satisfaction in this inpatient environment in order to implement nurse retention programmes specifically targeted toward teaching nurses skills in developing resilience. The nurses (n = 32) reported a high level of resilience and high job satisfaction. The job satisfaction subscale of professional status had the highest mean rating among these nurses, and the physician-nurse interaction subscale had the lowest mean score. Implications for future practice and research are addressed.
International journal of mental health nursing 10/2010; 19(5):307-12. · 1.07 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between structural empowerment and patient safety culture among staff level Registered Nurses (RNs) within adult critical care units (ACCU).
There is literature to support the value of RNs' structurally empowered work environments and emerging literature towards patient safety culture; the link between empowerment and patient safety culture is being discovered.
A sample of 257 RNs, working within adult critical care of a tertiary hospital in the United States, was surveyed. Instruments included a background data sheet, the Conditions of Workplace Effectiveness and the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture.
Structural empowerment and patient safety culture were significantly correlated. As structural empowerment increased so did the RNs' perception of patient safety culture.
To foster patient safety culture, nurse leaders should consider providing structurally empowering work environments for RNs. Implications for nursing management: This study contributes to the body of knowledge linking structural empowerment and patient safety culture. Results link structurally empowered RNs and increased patient safety culture, essential elements in delivering efficient, competent, quality care. They inform nursing management of key factors in the nurses' environment that promote safe patient care environments.
Journal of Nursing Management 10/2010; 18(7):796-803. · 1.18 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Nurses often provide care for patients and families who are suffering and where emotions are heightened. Compassion is an essential component of the care that nurses provide. Emotions play an important role in the relationship and communication between nurses, patients and families. Self-compassion is the ability to be compassionate to oneself, without this ability nurses might not be prepared to be compassionate to patients. Emotionally intelligent persons perceive themselves as confident, better able to understand, control and manage their emotions. The purpose of this descriptive, correlational study was to examine the relationship between self-compassion and emotional intelligence. Participants were 135 nurses. The setting for this study was a health system with hospitals located in Queens, Nassau and Suffolk counties of New York, USA. Three of the hospitals in the study are located in Queens and/or the Queens/Nassau border. Queens is the most culturally diverse community in the USA. The patients served, as well as the nursing staff, are reflective of this cultural and religious diversity. Results indicated a positive correlation between self-compassion and emotional intelligence (r = 0.55). Recommendations for future research include: exploration of self-compassion and emotional intelligence in nurses, and identification of the benefits of enhancing self-compassion and emotional intelligence in nurses.
International Journal of Nursing Practice 08/2010; 16(4):366-73. · 0.72 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: As women recover from the experience of breast cancer and its treatment, it is important for them to find meaning in their lives and to understand their experiences from a holistic perspective.
This study was designed to provide additional information about how women and their experiences recovering from breast cancer. The specific purpose was to describe the relationship between self-transcendence and spiritual well-being, and to identify the spiritual practices used by older women recovering from breast cancer. The theoretical framework for this study was Reed's theory of self-transcendence.
A total of 87 community-residing women who had been diagnosed with breast cancer within the past 5 years participated in the study.
There was a significant positive relationship between self-transcendence and spiritual well-being. The women used a mean of 9.72 spiritual practices with the most frequent being exercise, visiting a house of worship, and praying alone.
The study results provide further support for the theory of self-transcendence. Future research recommendations are to expand the research to include a larger, more diverse group of women of all ages and backgrounds who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.
Journal of Holistic Nursing 06/2010; 28(2):115-22.
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ABSTRACT: Although the use of spiritual and alternative healthcare practices is increasing, knowledge of these practices among the Amish is limited. This study explored the spiritual and healthcare practices of 134 Amish. Information about the diversity and prevalence of these practices among the Amish may be useful to nurses in practice.
Holistic nursing practice 02/2010; 24(2):64-72. · 0.52 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Empowering workplaces provide practitioners with access to information, support, resources, and opportunities to learn and grow. Empowerment is also a psychological process, which occurs when one has a sense of motivation in relation to the workplace environment. There is no previous research on the relationship of psychological empowerment and structural empowerment in nurse practitioner (NP) practice.
Structural empowerment was measured using the conditions of work effectiveness questionnaire-II (CWEQ-II), and psychological empowerment was measured using Spreitzer's psychological empowerment scale. The sample consisted of 74 NPs in the state of Connecticut. The correlational scores for the instruments were derived with n = 72 as two subjects had extreme scores on multiple variables and were excluded. There were significant correlations between psychological and structural empowerment for total scores, and within 10 of these tools' subscales.
The NPs who participated in this study scored high on perceptions of structural empowerment and psychological empowerment. The results of the psychological empowerment instrument indicated that the NPs value their work and find meaning in what they do.
The relationships between psychological empowerment and structural empowerment have been linked to work effectiveness, quality patient care, cost-effectiveness, and retention. Study results support an implication that it is of critical importance for the organization or practice setting to facilitate both psychological and structural empowerment to the NP to ensure successful practice.
Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners 01/2010; 22(1):27-34. · 0.82 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: This exploratory descriptive study of spiritual experiences, well-being, and practices was conducted among 126 nursing students. Participants reported a higher level of spiritual well-being and life scheme than self-efficacy for well-being and life-scheme. Thus, students appeared to view the world and their role in it slightly more positively than their ability to affect their lives and make decisions. The students reported the most frequent spiritual experiences as being thankful for blessings; the next most frequent spiritual experiences having a desire to be close to God, feeling a selfless caring for others, and finding comfort in one's religion and spirituality. Students used both conventional and unconventional spiritual practices. Further study is necessary to study the relationship among spiritual practices, daily spiritual experiences, and spiritual well-being among nursing students and to evaluate these before and after implementation of specific educational offerings focused on spirituality and spiritual care in nursing.
International Journal of Nursing Education Scholarship 01/2010; 7:Article40.
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ABSTRACT: To identify spiritual well-being and spiritual practices in women with gynecologic cancer.
Descriptive, cross-sectional.
Urban and rural communities in southeast Florida.
Convenience sample of 85 women (X age = 65.72 years) with some form of gynecologic cancer.
Participants completed questionnaires to assess spiritual well-being and spiritual practices while attending a healthcare clinic.
Spiritual well-being, spiritual practices.
The level of overall spiritual well-being was high, as were the levels of self-efficacy and life scheme (meaningfulness), as measured with two subscales. Most women reported use of several spiritual practices, including family activities, exercise, and listening to music.
Additional study of the spiritual well-being and practices of women with cancer and comparisons with other groups of women are needed.
Nurses can assume a role in encouraging spiritual practices and enhancing spiritual well-being in women with cancer.
Oncology Nursing Forum 06/2009; 36(3):300-5. · 1.91 Impact Factor
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Journal of Christian nursing: a quarterly publication of Nurses Christian Fellowship 03/2008; 25(2):100–102.
