As editor of JHPN, I often use the "tomorrow" test to guide my review of manuscripts. As I review papers and the valuable critiques offered by our excellent reviewers, I evaluate each paper for publication in JHPN by asking: "If nurses read this paper in our journal today, what is the likelihood it could realistically help them tomorrow in practice?" The articles in this issue all passed the "tomorrow test" very well. The article by Susan Thrane on end-of-life care for Hindus provides valuable clinical information to reduce suffering and to provide culturally appropriate care. The article by Rivera and McMillan on depression in hospice caregivers provides valuable data to assist in screening for depression and providing care for this common symptom. Readers will identify closely with the article by Sessanna, which validates the importance of listening and presence in caring for older adults.
One of the things that most helps us provide better care tomorrow is having models of care. Finnerty and Gregory present their educational program in a VA hospital designed to improve the quality of nursing care. Their innovative strategies can serve as a model for others. Digiulio, Simionato, Dimonte, Villani, Gentile, and Toscani demonstrate the importance of the quality of life for severely demented patients.
In July 2010, I had the opportunity to attend the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association's leadership weekend in Pittsburgh. It was my privilege to present to the chapter leaders and national board of HPNA on "Writing for Publication." I was overwhelmed by the excellent ideas these leaders have for publishing in JHPN, and I hope that you also will make publishing your wisdom and clinical experiences a New Year's resolution for 2011.
This is the last issue of 2010. The next issue you receive for January/February will have a new look and some exciting changes made in conjunction with the 25th anniversary of the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association. The journal will continue to strive for strong articles to share so that tomorrow, patients and families benefit.
Betty Ferrell, PhD, MA, FAAN, FPCN
Editor-in-Chief
[email protected]