The perception of ward‐based nurses seconded into an Outreach Service

Abstract

A group of ward nurses were seconded into an Outreach Service for a 2-week period. Following this, the group took part in an evaluation of the placement using a focus group methodology. The aim of this project was to explore the perceptions of a ward-based nurse recruited into the Outreach Service so that they could function effectively and efficiently in that role. The intended outcomes of the project were: --to explore the needs of the new Outreach nurse who was recruited from the ward environment --to enable the participants of the project to have a better understanding of the role of the Outreach team --to enable the participants to develop their skills in assessing critically ill patients --to make recommendations to the Kent Critical Care Network regarding the recruitment of ward staff to Outreach.

An integrative review and meta‐synthesis of the scope and impact of intensive care liaison and outreach services

“…2005a,b, Valentine & Skirton 2006). The small study examining experiences of ward nurses ( n = 9) seconded to join the ICU outreach team identified benefits in terms of enhanced confidence, knowledge and skills in managing critically ill patients (Plowright et al. 2005).…”

“…Two approaches have been taken to examine outcomes of ICU LN/OR services as perceived by ward staff: general surveys sent to a range of ward staff members who may have had contact with the service (Richardson et al. 2004, Valentine & Skirton 2006) and interviews with purposive samples of those who have been involved with delivering (Plowright et al. 2005) or liaising with the service (Chaboyer et al.…”

“…Respondents identified the supportive aspects of the role as key, with the belief that the service enhanced patient care by offering formal and informal support to staff, improved access to critical care services and facilitated the development of critical care skills in clinical areas (Richardson et al 2004, Chaboyer et al 2005a,b, Valentine & Skirton 2006. The small study examining experiences of ward nurses (n = 9) seconded to join the ICU outreach team identified benefits in terms of enhanced confidence, knowledge and skills in managing critically ill patients (Plowright et al 2005). None of these respondents identified any impact on the broader/strategic elements of the service, for example, guideline development.…”

Staff experiences of an early warning indicator for unstable patients in Australia

“…Research has demonstrated that ward nursing staff found that nurse‐led teams gave them support and confidence and empowered them to discuss or troubleshoot problems (Odell et al, 2002). A study by Plowright et al (2005) included the rotation of ward staff into the nurse‐led team and commented that this gave them new confidence and skills in patient assessment and decision‐making processes which was beneficial to patient care upon their return to the wards. The clinical and educational support provided by full‐time nursing staff employed in these roles is an added advantage.…”