SUBMISSIONS - Active access the editorial and publishing platform for authors and reviewers. Click to log in. ISSN: 1730-1912 e-ISSN: 2450-646X Quarterly The journal Nursing in the 21st Century has been regularly published since 2002. Nursing in the 21st Century is issued quarterly, and the subject matter of the published articles includes: nursing, midwifery and other health sciences. According to the list of scientific journals prepared by the Ministry of Science and Education from 17th July 2023, Nursing in the 21st Century obtained 40 points. The journal is indexed in the prestigious databases ERIH PLUS, SCOPUS, Web of Science - Emerging Sources Citaiton Index. In Index Copernicus, Index Copernicus Value (ICV) for the year 2024 is equal to 142.00 points. Journal Metrics: Impact Factor 0.5; JCI 0.14; Cite Score 0.7; SJR 0.180; SNIP 0.218; MEiN 40; ICV 142,00. Rejection rate: 43% Average number of weeks between article submission & publication: 35 (over the past 12 months). More... Purchase of the archival edition (2017-2021) in paperback: online via e-mail: journals@umlub.edu.pl
Perceived risks to quality in community mental health care for socially marginalised adults in Slovenia: a qualitative stakeholder study
PERCEIVED RISKS TO QUALITY IN COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH CARE FOR SOCIALLY MARGINALISED ADULTS IN SLOVENIA: A QUALITATIVE STAKEHOLDER STUDY Aim. The provision of high-quality mental health care is a fundamental obligation of welfare states, a professional duty, and a basic human right. However, significant knowledge gaps persist at the intersection of patient needs and service delivery—particularly in relation to access, quality, and the effects of stigma and discrimination. These gaps disproportionately affect socially marginalised (SM) and medically vulnerable (HV) adults with mental disorders. This study investigates the perceived risks to the quality of community mental health (CMH) care for adults with mental disorders, as identified by various stakeholders. It further explores proposed measures for mitigating these risks. Material and methods. A qualitative design was employed, involving three focus groups with CMH professionals and 26 semi-structured interviews with service users, students, researchers, experts, and policy makers. Results. The perceived risks were categorised into six thematic domains, while the proposed measures were organised into eight strategic categories. Several of the proposed actions hold broader relevance for improving CMH care and service equity beyond the national context. Conclusions. The findings highlight the urgent need to establish local CMH action groups and to develop inclusive strategies involving SM and HV representatives to address systemic quality risks in community-based mental health care.
the risk of quality of mental health care
Copyright (c) 2026 Vesna Zupančič, Karmen Erjavec (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Mentoring during the professional adaptationof nurses and its association with professional values, moral sensitivity and caring competence
MENTORING DURING THE PROFESSIONAL ADAPTATIONOF NURSES AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH PROFESSIONAL VALUES, MORAL SENSITIVITY AND CARING COMPETENCE Aim. The aim of this study was to examine the association between mentoring, understood as support provided to nurses at the beginning of their professional practice and their professional values, moral sensitivity and caring competence. Material and methods. The study included 576 newly qualifi ed nurses. Data were collected using an author-developed questionnaire and three instruments validated for use in Poland: the Care Ability Inventory, the Nurses’ Professional Values Scale (NPVS-3) and the Moral Sensitivity Questionnaire. Results. Mentoring, defi ned by respondents as having a formally assigned individual responsible for introducing them to the workplace (N = 157; 27.3% of the sample), was signifi cantly associated with higher levels of moral sensitivity (p = 0.001) and caring competence (p = 0.001). Nurses who, at the beginning of their professional careers, received support from an assigned ward nurse or a more experienced colleague demonstrated signifi cantly higher levels of these attributes. No signifi cant association was found between mentoring and professional values (p = 0.367). A total of 5.9% of respondents reported receiving no support during the initial period of employment. Conclusions. Newly qualified nurses who did not receive mentoring support demonstrated lower levels of caring competence than those who were mentored. These findings suggest that mentoring programmes delivered by experienced nurses may support the development of caring competence among newly qualified nurses and potentially contribute to safer patient care.
Copyright (c) 2026 Grażyna Rożek, Piotr Szulich, Marianna Liliana Charzyńska-Gula, Beata Dobrowolska (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Caregivers’ well-being in the context of intellectual disability: a systematic review of emotional and health-related needs
CAREGIVERS’ WELL-BEING IN THE CONTEXT OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF EMOTIONAL AND HEALTH-RELATED NEEDS Aim. The aim of this study was to examine the association between mentoring, understood as support provided to nurses at the beginning of their professional practice and their professional values, moral sensitivity and caring competence. Material and methods. The study included 576 newly qualified nurses. Data were collected using an author-developed questionnaire and three instruments validated for use in Poland: the Care Ability Inventory, the Nurses’ Professional Values Scale (NPVS-3) and the Moral Sensitivity Questionnaire. Results. Mentoring, defined by respondents as having a formally assigned individual responsible for introducing them to the workplace (N = 157; 27.3% of the sample), was significantly associated with higher levels of moral sensitivity (p = 0.001) and caring competence (p = 0.001). Nurses who, at the beginning of their professional careers, received support from an assigned ward nurse or a more experienced colleague demonstrated significantly higher levels of these attributes. No significant association was found between mentoring and professional values (p = 0.367). A total of 5.9% of respondents reported receiving no support during the initial period of employment. Conclusions. Newly qualified nurses who did not receive mentoring support demonstrated lower levels of caring competence than those who were mentored. These findings suggest that mentoring programmes delivered by experienced nurses may support the development of caring competence among newly qualified nurses and potentially contribute to safer patient care.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ioannis Andriopoulos, Evangelia Kotrotsiou, Alexandra Skitsou, Alexandros Argyriadis, Viky Chrysoula Piletska, Georgios Charalampous (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Workload and job satisfaction among healthcare workers
WORKLOAD AND JOB SATISFACTION AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS Aim. Understanding the mechanisms linking working conditions with the well-being of healthcare workers is essential for improving the quality and safety of medical services. This study aimed to examine the link between workload and job satisfaction among healthcare workers. Material and methods. The study included 240 currently employed healthcare workers in Poland. A diagnostic survey approach was used, utilizing standardized tools: the Quantitative Workload Inventory (QWI) and the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire – Short Form (MSQ-SF). Results. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between workload and overall job satisfaction (ρ=−0.198; p=0.001). Medical rescuers reported the highest workload (M=20.29), which was significantly greater than that of other groups (p<0.001). Nurses had the lowest overall satisfaction (M=69.72), which was significantly lower than that of doctors (M=76.58; p<0.001) and paramedics (M=73.77; p<0.05). It has also been shown that longer work experience is linked to lower external satisfaction and overall satisfaction. Conclusions. Increased workload significantly reduces job satisfaction among medical staff. There are significant differences between professions - paramedics are the most overworked, while nurses show the lowest level of satisfaction. Job satisfaction decreases as work experience increases, showing that the system’s working conditions have a constant negative effect on employees’ well-being.
Copyright (c) 2026 Marta Katarzyna Hreńczuk, Magdalena Włosek (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Insertion of PICC Groshong™ with alternative tip position monitoring using the Vygocard™ – a case report
INSERTION OF PICC GROSHONG™ WITH ALTERNATIVE TIP POSITION MONITORING USING THE VYGOCARD™ – A CASE REPORT Aim. Accurate tip positioning of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) is essential for safe intravenous therapy. While intracavitary ECG (IC-ECG) is a recommended method for tip confirmation, access to compatible systems may be limited in clinical practice. The aim of this case report is to describe the use of the Vygocard™ system as an alternative method for tip confirmation during the Groshong™ PICC insertion. Material and methods. We present a case of a 70-year-old oncology patient requiring removal of a totally implantable vascular access device due to infection, followed by insertion of a PICC Groshong™ for continued chemotherapy. As the Groshong™ catheter lacks a dedicated IC-ECG system, the Vygocard™ device was used with continuous saline infusion to enable electric signal conduction. Results. Real-time monitoring with Vygocard™ confirmed correct catheter tip position at the cavo-atrial junction based on P-wave morphology changes. Chest X-ray post-procedure verified accurate placement. The catheter functioned eﬀectively and was later removed without complications. Conclusions. This case illustrates the successful oﬀ-label use of Vygocard™ for tip confirmation in a Groshong™ PICC. The approach may serve as a safe and eﬀective alternative when dedicated systems are unavailable.
Copyright (c) 2026 Artur Szymczak, Łukasz Wróblewski, Maciej Latos (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Challenges in providing health care to school-age children in Poland – the role of the school nurse in a changing educational and health care system
CHALLENGES IN PROVIDING HEALTH CARE TO SCHOOL-AGE CHILDREN IN POLAND – THE ROLE OF THE SCHOOL NURSE IN A CHANGING EDUCATIONAL AND HEALTH CARE SYSTEM Introduction. One of the key challenges of modern health care systems is ensuring adequate health care for children and adolescents in the school environment. In Poland, this care is primarily provided by school nurses and hygienists, whose work is hindered by numerous barriers, including staff shortages, insuﬃcient funding, and the growing health needs of students. Aim. This article aims to analyze the main problems and challenges faced by school nurses in Poland and identify possible directions for change that could improve the quality of student health care and nurses’ working conditions. Method. This review article is based on the analysis of available literature, legal regulations, and current reports from national institutions, including the Institute of Mother and Child, the Ministry of Health, and the Supreme Audit Oﬃce. The article also includes an interpretation of statistical data on access to health care and the availability of nursing staff in schools. Summary. Strengthening the school nurse’s role as a health educator, improving access to professional training, and enhancing funding and inter-institutional cooperation are essential for improving school-based health care. The authors emphasize that planned legislative changes should go hand in hand with maintaining high standards of care and fully utilizing the professional competencies of nurses.
Copyright (c) 2026 Agnieszka Pluta, Kamila Faleńczyk, Mariola Głowacka (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The role of compassion, communication, and teamwork on missed nursing care in the oncology units: findings of a scoping review
Introduction. Missed nursing care (MNC) refers to the omission or delay of care resulting from systemic problems, which is particularly dangerous in oncology and places a burden on patients and nurses. Aim. To map and summarize empirical studies–qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods–examining the role of compassion, teamwork, and communication in multidisciplinary nursing care among oncology nurses. Material and methods. A scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework. Five electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and ProQuest (Health and Medical Complete) were systematically searched, and the reference lists of included articles were manually screened to identify additional studies. Eligible studies were empirical (qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods), published in peer-reviewed journals and written in English. Grey literature, including dissertations, was also considered. Data were charted and analyzed using a narrative synthesis approach. Conclusions. This scoping review suggests that teamwork and communication influence the occurrence of missed nursing care in oncology, although the current evidence base remains fragmented and limited. Notably, compassion is underexplored, and existing research on communication and teamwork often overlooks the relational and ethical dimensions of nursing practice, underscoring the need for more comprehensive investigation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Reproductive health literacy among women in Roma communities
Aim. The present study aimed to evaluate the level of reproductive health literacy among women from Roma communities, with a particular focus on family planning, pregnancy, labour, and the postpartum period. Material and methods. A cross-sectional quantitative research design was employed. The study sample consisted of 48 Roma women of reproductive age (mean age 26.26 ± 11.78 years) residing in Roma communities. Data were collected using a non-standardized, researcher-developed questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were applied for data analysis. Results. The average score on the questionnaire assessing subjective health literacy was 41.58 points (maximum 60, minimum 15). However, when knowledge was objectively tested, many responses were incorrect, insufficient, or participants were unable to provide an answer. The lowest levels of knowledge were recorded in the domains of family planning and contraception, recommended physical activity during pregnancy, the appropriate time for resuming sexual activity after childbirth, and the adverse effects of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Statistically significant differences in health literacy levels were observed with respect to age (p = 0.003) and parity (p = < 0.001). Conclusions. The study revealed the unsatisfactory health literacy among Roma women, highlighting the need for targeted educational interventions implemented by healthcare professionals.
Feeding difficulties in children with orofacialcomplex disorders
Aim. Assessment of the prevalence of the most common symptoms of feeding difficulties in children with complex face and oral disorders. Material and methods. The questionnaire surveycovered 175 parents. The perspective of parents/guardians was adopted as the key source of information on the child’s daily functioning, as it is usually the parents who are the first to notice worrying symptoms and their impact on the child’s feeding and development. Results. Selective eating was observed in 34.8% of children. Difficulties with breastfeeding or bottle feeding during infancy affected 16.6%, problems with expanding the diet affected 15.2%, difficulties with chewing, swallowing and biting affected 10.3%, sensory and developmental disorders affected 9.7%, gastroesophageal reflux in 3.4% of cases, and conditions requiring medical assistance in 4.9% of cases. Mouth breathing, despite nasal patency, was observed in 45.1% of children. Tongue protrusion occurred in 16.8% of patients and difficulty swallowing saliva in 14.8%. Conclusions. The most common feeding difficulties in children were selective eating, sensory disturbances, sucking difficulties, and diet expansion. Most children showed normal weight gain despite reported feeding difficulties. It is therefore important to identify feeding problems in newborns and infants early on and to provide interprofessional care.
Adverse reactions of intramuscular injections associated with injection site selection: a literature review
Introduction. This article aims to determine the adverse reactions associated with the application of intramuscular injections at various injection sites. Aim. Our study is the literature review with a systematic search strategy. It includes 11 studies from selected databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, and OVID, between October and November 2024. The search was limited to dates between 2019-2024 and the availability of full texts. Material and methods. Studies often agree that it is important to pay attention to proper application methods and to choose the most suitable injection site based on the condition of the patient, while also addressing the preferences of the medical staff. Some studies differed regarding intramuscular injections (IM) into the ventrogluteal or dorsogluteal area due to the presence of the sciatic nerve. Conclusions. Intramuscular injections (IMI) are one of the most widely used methods of injecting active substances to a patients. Although this variant of injection is considered very safe, it does carry certain risks. There are several adverse events associated with IM injections, ranging from local events, such as pain, hematoma or redness at the injection site, to more serious events, which include nerve or bone injury and abscess formation. Therefore, it is important that IM injections are administered carefully and with careful site choice.
Copyright (c) 2026 Eliška Vaníčková, Valérie Tóthová, Sylva Bártlová (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Parents’ attitudes towards vaccination of their children – a review of measurement tools
PARENTS’ ATTITUDES TOWARDS VACCINATION OF THEIR CHILDREN – A REVIEW OF MEASUREMENT TOOLS Introduction. The best method of preventing infectious diseases in children of developmental age is protection through vaccination. However, their eff ectiveness depends on the acceptance and involvement of parents in the process of immunization of children. Aim. The aim of the work is to review and present standardized measurement tools available worldwide regarding the attitudes adopted by parents towards vaccination of their children. Material and methods. A narrative review method was used and a non-systematic review of thematic literature according to selected keywords was carried out. The data from the review were recorded by two independent authors in a specially prepared form. Results. A total of 8 standardized measurement scales were identifi ed from the USA, Canada, Switzerland, Italy and Ghana. The most commonly used scale was the Parent Attitudes about Childhood Vaccines (PACV) survey, adapted and validated in seven other countries. Conclusions. Standardized research tools allow to obtain objective, reliable data that can be used to develop eff ective educational and communication strategies aimed at increasing the acceptance of vaccinations among parents.
Copyright (c) 2026 Krystyna Zofia Szalast, Barbara Ślusarska (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Sleep quality in patients with Myasthenia Gravis – A review of studies
SLEEP QUALITY IN PATIENTS WITH MYASTHENIA GRAVIS – A REVIEW OF STUDIES Aim. The aim of the presented review is to analyze the available research on sleep quality in patients with myasthenia gravis. Material and methods. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Google Scholar, EBSCO, and Cochrane Library. Among the 1025 identified records, 20 underwent full-text assessment, and 7 met the inclusion criteria. Results. Patients with myasthenia gravis demonstrated reduced sleep quality, most frequently assessed using the PSQI. Symptoms such as fatigue, depression and anxiety were also reported and were associated with poorer quality of life. Conclusions. Sleep quality in patients with myasthenia gravis is significantly impaired and requires comprehensive evaluation. The use of multidimensional assessment tools and consideration of clinical variables are recommended.
Copyright (c) 2026 Weronika Jung-Plath, Wioletta Anna Mędrzycka-Dąbrowska (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Advanced Practice Nursing (APN) in the world: a comparative analysis of selected countries
ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSING (APN) IN THE WORLD: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF SELECTED COUNTRIES Introduction. Advanced Practice Nursing (APN) plays a crucial role in addressing global healthcare challenges, including physician shortages, aging populations, and the rising burden of chronic diseases. As highly trained professionals, APNs enhance healthcare access and quality across diverse settings. Aim. The aim of this study is to provide a concise comparative analysis of the development and integration of Advanced Practice Nursing (APN) roles between 2015 and 2025 in six countries - the United States, Australia, France, Poland, Japan, and Indonesia. Material and methods. This study employed a descriptive comparative design based on a structured literature review. Data were collected from PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases using the keyword “Advanced Practice Nursing” combined with six countries: the United States, Australia, France, Poland, Japan, and Indonesia. Publications from 2015 to 2025 were screened and selected according to inclusion criteria. The analysis focused on four key dimensions: educational pathways, regulatory and legal frameworks, scope of practice, and health system integration. Results. Countries like the United States and Australia have mature APN frameworks with full practice authority and clear educational pathways. In contrast, France, Poland, Japan, and Indonesia are at varying stages of APN development, often limited by restrictive legislation, fragmented training systems, or lack of professional recognition. Common challenges include role ambiguity, insufficient funding, and resistance from medical bodies. Conclusions. APN implementation varies globally, with the United States and Australia leading the way, France is implementing reforms , while Poland, Japan, and Indonesia remain in the early stages. Key barriers include lack of clear regulation, limited awareness, medical resistance, and insufficient funding. Further comparative research and the development of international standards in APN education and regulation are needed.
Copyright (c) 2026 Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Cultural adaptation and validation of the Nursing Students’ Professional Behavior Scale (NSPBS) to Polish conditions
CULTURAL ADAPTATION AND VALIDATION OF THE NURSING STUDENTS’ PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR SCALE (NSPBS) TO POLISH CONDITIONS Aim. The aim of the study is the adaptation as well as the cultural and psychometric validation of the Nursing Students’ Professional Behaviors Scale (NSPBS) for use in the Polish context, as well as the assessment of the level of these behaviors among nursing students. Material and methods. The study involved 304 undergraduate nursing students in Lublin. In order to validate the study, pre-test and the post-test were used. Cronbach’s alpha coeﬃcient was used to assess psychometric properties. The significance of the factors was evaluated using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), conducted with the principal components method. Results. A three-factor solution was applied. The correlations within the subscales (“Healthcare Practice”“Professional Practice,”and “Reporting”) ranged from 0.49 to 0.76, indicating moderate to high intercorrelations. The internal consistency of the scale was 0.93 [95% CI = 0.92–0.94]. The test-retest reliability of the total score and individual subscales was also satisfactory. The average score of nursing students’ professional behaviors was 118.70 ± 11.45, which is interpreted as a high result.
Maternal attachment style and prenatal depression: the mediating role of body image
MATERNAL ATTACHMENT STYLE AND PRENATAL DEPRESSION: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF BODY IMAGE Aim. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between maternal attachment styles, body dissatisfaction, and prenatal depressive symptoms, with a particular focus on the mediating role of negative body image. Material and methods. The study included a sample of 215 pregnant women (M = 28.4; SD = 4.5) in their second or third trimester. Participants completed the Attachment Styles Questionnaire (ASQ), the general body dissatisfaction subscale of the Body Attitude Test (BAT), and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Mediation analyses were conducted using the PROCESS macro for SPSS with bootstrapping (5,000 resamples). Results. Security of attachment was negatively correlated with body dissatisfaction and prenatal depressive symptoms, whereas anxious and avoidant attachment styles showed positive correlations. Negative body image fully mediated the relationship between all attachment styles and depressive symptoms. Conclusions. Negative body image may serve as a key psychological mechanism, which links insecure attachment styles with prenatal depression. Interventions aimed at improving body image may help to reduce the risk of depression in pregnant women,particularly those with insecure attachment patterns.
Copyright (c) 2026 Piotr Nowicki, Beata Szlendak, Urszula Tataj-Puzyna (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Preoperative anxiety in neurosurgical patients
PREOPERATIVE ANXIETY IN NEUROSURGICAL PATIENTS Aim. Preoperative anxiety is a risk factor for various psychophysiological reactions in patients, which increases need for anaesthesia, prolonged hospitalisation, and overall convalescence. The purpose of the study was to detect the incidence of anxiety in patients before neurosurgical operations and assess the impact of time to operation and selected demographic factors on the occurrence of anxiety. Material and methods. The study was approved by the Hospital Ethics Committee. A cross-sectional study design was used. The sample consisted of 108 respondents. The average age was 58.16 years (SD = 12.49). Data were collected in a preoperative period in patients before their planned operations. Preoperative anxiety was assessed by the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale. The data were analysed with the IBM SPSS Statistics 22, the Mann-Whitney U test, the Wilcoxon test, and the Pearson correlation coefficient. Results. Anxiety and need for information varied over time to the date of operation with an increasing trend between Measurements 1 and 2 (p < 0.001) and between Measurements 1 and 3 (p < 0.001), with a greater increase in females. No statistically signifi cant relationship between preoperative anxiety and age was found. Conclusions. The fi ndings support the need for preoperative anxiety assessment in neurosurgical patients.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ľubica Koprdová, Ľubica Libová, Dana Brázdilová, Andrea Sollárová (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Health literacy and depression in seniors aged 65 and over
HEALTH LITERACY AND DEPRESSION IN SENIORS AGED 65 AND OVER Aim. The aim of the research was to describe the level of health literacy among seniors aged 65+ in the South Bohemian regarding depression. The study was descriptive and cross-sectional. Material and methods. The survey included 403 individuals selected by quota sampling.. The study sample is representative in terms of gender, age, and region. The interview structure was derived from the standardized questionnaire HLS-EU-Q16, supplemented by socio-demographic questions. Results. The level of health literacy among seniors was considered suffi cient for 59.9%, problematic for 24.1%, and inadequate (insufficient) for 16.1%. Seniors who were measured to have inadequate health literacy were identified to suff er from mild depression to a significantly great extent. Conclusions. Research should focus on the role of low health literacy in people suffering from depression.
Application of methods in historical nursing research
APPLICATION OF METHODS IN HISTORICAL NURSING RESEARCH Introduction. The article discusses the application of historical methods in nursing research. Aim. The aim of this study is to give an overview of published studies on historical nursing research and to consider how historical methods can help in understanding the profession’s past and present relevance. Methods. The analysis includes studies published between 2009 and 2023. A total of six studies were identified. In all cases, the authors conducted historical research using appropriate historical methodologies. Each selected study was based on archival research involving the analysis of primary sources. In addition to archival materials, two studies also employed the method of oral history. Case studies and biographical narratives were used as supplementary research strategies. Results. Historical research shows how nursing has changed over time and highlights contributions that might otherwise be overlooked. It provides insights that are useful in teaching and shaping professional identity and encourages reflection on practice. Overall, the findings indicate that historical work continues in this field to be relevant both to the education of nurses and to the preparation of health professionals. Conclusions. The findings indicate that historical research in nursing employs a diverse range of methodological approaches.
Copyright (c) 2026 Vladimira Pospisilova, Valérie Tóthová (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Pilot testing of the Czech version of the „Knowledge and Attitudes Survey Regarding Pain” (KASRP-CZ) among nursing students
PILOT TESTING OF THE CZECH VERSION OF THE „KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDES SURVEY REGARDING PAIN” (KASRP-CZ) AMONG NURSING STUDENTS Aim. Good quality pain management requires suﬃcient knowledge and attitudes. The widely used KASRP questionnaire had not previously been tested in the Czech Republic and therefore was pilot tested in this study. To evaluate the comprehensibility and preliminary usability of the Czech version of the KASRP questionnaire (KASRP-CZ) among nursing students and to identify areas for improvement. Material and methods. A pilot cross-sectional study was conducted in March 2025 among 48 third-year nursing students, who completed the paper-based KASRP-CZ questionnaire anonymously. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data, and the effect of prior healthcare experience was assessed using with the t-test . Participants rated the questionnaire’s comprehensibility and provided open-ended feedback. Results. The average knowledge score was 51.5%, with one-third of students scoring below 50%. Content validity was confirmed, though some instructions were unclear. The mean comprehensibility rating was 3.19/5, with students reporting diﬃculties mainly in case studies and opioid-related questions. Prior healthcare experience had no significant effect on scores (p = 0.529). Conclusions. The KASRP-CZ questionnaire demonstrated acceptable clarity and content validity in this pilot study. Identified knowledge gaps–particularly in opioid pharmacology and clinical decision-making–highlight the need to strengthen pain education in Czech nursing curricula. The instrument is suitable for further research and educational use.
Copyright (c) 2026 Iryna Matějková, Katerina Ivanová (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Factors aﬀecting biochemical indicators of blood among obese children – an integrative literature review
FACTORS AFFECTING BIOCHEMICAL INDICATORS OF BLOOD AMONG OBESE CHILDREN – AN INTEGRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW Introduction. Prevention of complications of chronic diseases in children and adolescents is nowadays receiving increasing concern. Blood biochemistry analysis is one of the key and precise diagnostic tools in medicine, which is used to assess state of functioning of individual organs and systems in human body, as well as to identify possible metabolic disorders, diagnosis of health problem, risk assessment, screening or monitoring of treatment. Aim. The purpose of this research was to provide an integrative review of existing research examining the relationship between blood chemistry in children. Material and methods. The study included 40 articles published between 2013 and 2023. The research focused mainly on correlations between obesity and the levels of mineral elements, vitamins, hormones, cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose and insulin levels, as well as the condition of the cardiovascular and osteoarticular system. Summary. Increased efforts to prevent metabolic disorders and obesity in child population need further reinforcement
Nurses’ perceptions of artificial intelligence use in clinical practice: a qualitative study
NURSES’ PERCEPTIONS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE USE IN CLINICAL PRACTICE: A QUALITATIVE STUDY Aim. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) raises several uncertainties about its impact on nursing and health care in general. To date, not much attention has been paid to the views of practicing nurses on the use of this technology, leaving a research gap in this area. The aim of the study was to explore nurses’ current perceptions of the use of AI in their profession and examine the associated benefits and ethical considerations of this technological innovation. Material and methods. A qualitative, exploratory design was used. Fifteen Slovenian nurses submitted their written reflections and participated in two focus groups on this topic. Results. The following three themes were identified: AI limitations (categories: Empathy and Communication, and Clinical Reasoning), potential benefits of AI (categories: Work Efficiency and Improving Nursing as a Discipline), and social & managerial concerns (categories: Acceptance of AI and Implementation and Use). Conclusions. The identified themes and categories direct the process of adopting the innovation of AI in nursing and reflect its specificity. Furthermore, they highlight the need for a paradigm shift in nursing that can be expected with the use of this technology in clinical nursing practice.
Copyright (c) 2026 Igor Karnjuš, Boštjan Žvanut (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comparative knowledge of aging between geriatric and general nurses: a cross-sectional study in Croatia
ABSTRACT COMPARATIVE KNOWLEDGE OF AGING BETWEEN GERIATRIC AND GENERAL NURSES: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY IN CROATIA Introduction. Accurate knowledge of aging is essential for nurses to provide competent care to older adults. However, diff erences in this knowledge between geriatric and non-geriatric nurses remain underexplored in Central and Eastern Europe. Aim. To compare the knowledge about aging between geriatric and general nurses in Croatia using Palmore’s Facts on Aging Quiz. Material and methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1,048 nurses across Croatia. Participants included 250 geriatric and 798 general nurses. An online survey, including Palmore’s Facts on Aging Quiz, was distributed. Descriptive statistics and chisquare tests were used for the analysis. Results. Most of the quiz questions revealed no statistically signifi cant diff erences. However, general nurses were signifi cantly less likely to correctly agree that “about 80% of older adults report being healthy enough to carry out normal activities” (χ² = 6.847, p = 0.009). Conclusions. Both groups of nurses exhibit knowledge gaps related to aging. Geriatric nurses demonstrate slightly better awareness of self-reported health among older adults. Tailored gerontological education should be implemented across all nursing domains.
Nutritional status and functional performanceof patients qualified for cardiac pacemaker implantation
Aim. The aim of the study is to assess nutritional status and the risk of health deterioration, deterioration of functional capacity or death within the next two years in relation to demographics of patients qualified for cardiac pacemaker implantation. Material and methods. The study was conducted on 211 patients aged 65 years or older qualified for cardiac pacemaker implantation. Results. The mean age of the respondents was 78 ± 7.56 years. Most of the respondents of the study group were women. Patients in the age groups 65-74 years and 75-84 years declared similar nutritional status. The risk of health deterioration, functional capacity and death increased with age. Conclusions. The risk of malnutrition and diagnosed malnutrition were mostly observed in patients aged 85 years and older. The growing risk of significant deterioration of health and functional capacity in patients qualified for cardiac pacemaker implantation were attributed to aging, being unmarried, less educated and having poorer nutritional status. Improvement of the nutritional status, particularly in people at the age of 85 years or older, qualified for cardiac pacemaker implantation, is one of the key factors contributing to a lower risk of significant deterioration of health.
Copyright (c) 2025 Karolina Elżbieta Kołodziej , Joanna Chrobak-Bień, Tomasz Wcisło, Michał Plewka, Ewa Borowiak (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Low-profile balloon gastrostomy – prospective evaluation
Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate selected parameters of the nutritional treatment process in Home Enteral Nutrition (HEN) patients with a low-profile balloon gastrostomy. Material and methods. Fourteen HEN patients who had a low-profile balloon gastrostomy in December 2024 were included in the study. Patient data were collected from medical records from the HEN procedure qualification and during follow-up visits. Results. The majority of patients had normal biochemical parameters for nutritional status at baseline and during follow-up, while their BMI was below normal. None of the patients had any discharge around the gavage site. All patients had no problems with tube rotation or patency. The presence of a reaction around the gavage site was noted in four patients at the start of follow-up, with improvement observed thereafter. Granulation tissue was observed in one patient at the time of low-profile gastrostomy insertion. Conclusions. HEN patients with low-profile balloon gastrostomy placement generally have a low incidence of complications related to the presence of artificial access to the gastrointestinal tract.. The use of this type of tube in daily clinical practice should be considered on a case-by-case basis. It is advocated that this type of tube should be used more frequently in the HEN procedure.
Copyright (c) 2025 Filip Biernacki, Krystyna Majewska, Jacek Sobocki (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Maastricht criteria III in the global context: a systematic review of development and implementation
Aim. This review examines the development and implementation of the Maastricht Criteria III in controlled (cDCD) and uncontrolled (uDCD) Donation after Circulatory Death in various healthcare systems, evaluates compliance with the no-touch interval, and the influence of opt-in versus opt-out consent models on the availability and use of donor organs. Material and methods. Following Evidence-Based Practice principles, a systematic search was performed in full-text electronic databases covering healthcare, bioethics, and transplantation sciences. Peer-reviewed, full-text studies relevant to DCD classification and clinical application were included. Additionally, a critical methodological quality appraisal of all included studies was conducted using a standardised tool, thereby enhancing the robustness of our conclusions. Results. Eleven studies met inclusion criteria, addressing DCD classification, consent frameworks, no-touch interval adherence, and organ procurement impact. Substantial international variability emerged: presumed consent (opt-out) systems achieved higher donor conversion rates, whereas extended no-touch intervals detrimentally affected organ viability. Conclusions. This review presents a structured analysis of Maastricht Criteria III application, particularly in Europe. cDCD follows increasingly standardised protocols, while uDCD remains inconsistently implemented due to ethical and logistical challenges. To enhance donor identification, organ utilisation, and transplantation outcomes, it is essential to standardise protocols, refine ischemia-mitigation techniques, and strengthen international collaboration.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jana Křivková, Jiří Šimek, Alena Lochmannová, Pavel Leden (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Autonomy among professional nurses – validation of the Dempster Practice Behavior Scale (DPBS) in Poland
Aim. A proper understanding of autonomy can enhance patient care, reduce occupational burnout, foster professional socialisation, and elevate the quality of work among nurses. The Dempster Practice Behavior Scale has been translated into several languages and is widely used in worldwide scientific research with favorable outcomes. Material and methods. The evaluation of the credibility, reliability, and psychometric properties of the Polish version of the Dempster Practice Behavior Scale. Results. The study involved the participation of 338 nurses and utilised the DPBS questionnaire. To validate the DPBS questionnaire, a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was performed, an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) with Varimax rotation was undertaken alongside Horne’s parallel analysis and scree plot adoption. The reliability of the questionnaire was assessed through Pearson’s r correlation and Cronbach’s alpha coeﬃcient, considering values greater than 0.7 as satisfactory. Conclusions. The parallel analysis yielded four primary factors and corresponding item subgroups, accounting for 47.6% of the total variance. Factor loadings varied between 0.40 and 0.72. The Polish version of DPBS-P exhibits a high-reliability score, making it a standardised tool for measuring nurse autonomy. Cultural adaptation necessitated altering the number of items and corresponding names of the DPBS-P factors.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anna Sadowska, Bożena Czarkowska-Pączek (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
An exploratory survey of the digital technology readiness of the health care workforce across nine EU member states
Introduction. Recent crises such as COVID-19, cyber-attacks on health care digital infrastructure, mass migration and war, highlight the crucial role of digital technology in service delivery. The establishment of the EU4 Health Programme in 2021, emphasized the need for an EU wide comprehensive enhancement of workforce digital skills with an emphasis on crisis resilience. At present there is almost no comparative EU wide workforce survey research in this area to inform effective policy implementation. Aim. To explore the use of digital technologies, the expressed training needs, the wellbeing and perception of organisational capacities referenced to digital technology across health care workforce in nine European Union states. Methods. A 36-item survey was developed focused on digital competencies, digital use, cybersecurity awareness, training needs, sense of wellbeing and perception of organisational readiness to implement digital change, utilising convenience sampling. For purposes of analysis workforce respondents were divided between clinical and non-clinical staff. Data was analysed using SPSS according to a pre-registered analysis plan. Results. After data cleaning, 2,028 respondents’ answers were analysed. Non-clinical staff demonstrated higher proficiency and usage rates in digital technologies. Significant differences between non-clinical and clinical staff were noted in security awareness, with clinical staff having significantly less knowledge/ awareness. All respondents perceived their organisations as only moderately ready to implement digital health care change. Conclusions. These exploratory results highlight need for policy development and interventions that enhance digital competencies across the EU health workforce. The results also suggest there is a need to address organisational capacities to support both training of the workforce and effective use of the workforce’s digital skills once these are acquired.
Copyright (c) 2025 John SG Wells, Florian Scheibein, Alvisa Palese , Ivana Barać, Jan Beger, Ieva Bikava, Aelita Bredelytė, Keith Byrne, Frances Cleary (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Nursing in nutritional support in cancerpatients – case study
Aim. Malnutrition is a serious problem for cancer patients. Material and methods. We chose a qualitative research method called case study. A semi-structured interview was conducted with the patients, focusing on changes in the satisfaction of nutritional needs arising from the impact of the disease. The interview was complemented by patient observation and his physical screening examination. We also used standardised measurement tools. Results. In terms of nutritional status, a nursing diagnosis of Nutritional Imbalance: a deficiency of nutrients with respect to the body’s requirements was identified in all three cases. As for the fluid intake, the Risk for deficient fluid intake was determined in all cases. Based on the nursing diagnoses, we planned nursing interventions aimed at eliminating the patients’ problems. Prior to discharge to home care, patients were educated by the nurse on nutritional interventions and fluid intake. Comparison of outcomes on admission and after 11 weeks demonstrated improvement in nutritional status and fluid balance in all 3 cases. Conclusions. For effective systematisation of nutritional support in cancer patients, we recommend nurses to use the nursing intervention algorithm. The implementation of the nursing intervention algorithm into practice, confirmed its impact on the elimination of the development of malnutrition in cancer patients.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jarmila Kristová, Emília Miklovičová, Zuzana Bachratá, Martina Solárová (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The level of nurses’ knowledge regarding peripheral vascular access – is there a needfor further education in this area?
Aim. The aim of the study was to assess nurses’ knowledge regarding peripheral vascular access. Material and methods. The study was conducted among 153 individuals, predominantly women and urban residents. The average age of respondents was 30.6 years, and their average work experience in the profession was 7.9 years. More than half of the respondents held a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The study utilised a diagnostic survey method and a questionnaire technique. The analysis included the Shapiro-Wilk test, the Mann-Whitney U test, the Kruskal-Wallis H test, and the chi-square test. Results. A high and very high level of knowledge was demonstrated by 35 (22.9%) and 43 (28.1%) respondents, respectively. The average number of correct answers was 19.4 points. The highest number of correct responses was given to questions concerning the essence, purpose, legal foundations, and principles of caring for a patient with a short peripheral intravenous catheter, while fewer correct answers were given regarding the use of midline catheters. Conclusions. The respondents demonstrated a relatively high overall level of knowledge regarding peripheral vascular access. A significant impact of age, place of residence, work experience in the nursing profession, and the type of pre- and postgraduate education completed on the level of knowledge presented was observed.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hanna Grabowska (Tłumacz); Paulina Sójkowska (Autor) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Practical guidelines for nursing and midwifery diabetes care – 2026. A position of the Polish Federation for Education in Diabetology
Aim. Presenting a set of procedures describing nursing interventions in diabetes care, including currently available scientific evidence and clinical experience of specialists involved in the care of diabetic patients. Material and methods. The study involved a literature review of selected areas of nursing practice in diabetes care. When compiling the material, the priority was to use data from: randomized controlled clinical trials and their meta-analyses, systematic reviews, observational studies and other studies with lower levels of evidence. Results. Based on an analysis of the collected material, 14 procedures and 4 guidelines have been developed, describing selected aspects of nursing interventions in diabetic patients. Each of the procedures details key recommendations on diabetes care, arranged in accordance of the significance ascribed to the scientific evidence analyzed. Conclusions. The 2026 PFED guidelines on nursing diabetes care are the effect of the evaluation of the previous versions and comprise an updated, considerably more extensive, comprehensive and evidence-based set of practices. The major asset of these guidelines is their interdisciplinarity, reflected in the fact that the final version of the publication was approved by consultants in nursing fields, a consultant in diabetology, and representatives of the medical community from the Polish Diabetes Society. The authors experience gained during work on international recommendations (New Insulin Delivery Recommendations) played an important role when formulating the present guidelines.
Copyright (c) 2025 Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0