Purpose/Objectives:
The purpose of this study was to describe the patterns of hyperglycemic events in stem cell transplant (SCT) patients who are undergoing active treatment. Through this study, we seek to provide the basis for developing nursing-sensitive outcome interventions to ameliorate the debilitating consequences of hyperglycemia in this population.
Significance:
The goals of this study were to describe the prevalence of hyperglycemia events in the SCT patient population and to compare the occurrence of negative nursing-sensitive patient outcomes between SCT patients who have had hyperglycemic episodes and those who have not had a hyperglycemic episode. This will lay the foundation for an increasing awareness and recognition of the impact of comorbidities on cancer treatment outcomes. The relationship of tentative risk factors and covariates to the development of hyperglycemia in patients with cancer should direct future studies to reduce the risk factors. Any associations or relationships between hyperglycemia and adverse outcomes warrant further investigation into the impact of hyperglycemia on the outcomes of SCT patients and eventually to an intervention study in managing glucose levels in the SCT patient. Furthermore, any relationship between the comorbid conditions will validate the need for an interdisciplinary approach to the management of cancer. Oncologists, endocrinologists, intensivists, nurses, pharmacists, and dietitians should all work together to manage the issues for the patient with hyperglycemia and cancer.
Design/Background/Rationale:
This will be a descriptive study using data from observational chart reviews of SCT patients. Demographic and clinical information during the course of hospitalizations for the transplant will be abstracted from inpatient medical records.
Methods/Description:
Patients who meet the inclusion criteria will be identified and assigned an identification number. All data forms will be coded with the identification number and will be stored in a locked file drawer, which would only be accessible to the members of the project team. Patient-identifiable information will only be entered into a separate tracking log, which will only be used to identify the electronic medical records for data abstraction. The tracking log will be kept in a locked file drawer and will be destroyed after all records have been identified and set aside. All data will be entered using the identification number. A research assistant (RA) will conduct the initial chart screening and identification of qualifying patients with the principal investigator (PI). The initial chart screening and identification of qualifying patients will be facilitated through the use of a patient screening log. This form will not only support the screening process but will also be an integral part of maintaining patient confidentiality. Data will then be abstracted from the medical records and entered on the DCF. The first 10 medical records will be reviewed by the PI and RA to ensure that an accurate data capture throughout the study. The subsequent records will then be reviewed by the RA with 1 out of every 10 records randomly selected for a PI audit to ensure inter-rater reliability. Data will be abstracted from existing sources within the medical center. All data recorded will be anonymous. No person-identifiable information will be used in this collection of data.
Findings/Outcomes:
Not available.
Conclusions:
Not available.
Implications for Practice:
Not available.
Section Description
The 2009 NACNS National Conference will be held in St Louis, Missouri, on March 5 to 7. More than 350 clinical nurse specialists (CNSs), graduate faculty, nurse administrators, nurse researchers, and graduate students are registered. This year's theme, "Clinical Nurse Specialists: Vision, Value, Voice," demonstrates the essential leadership skills of the CNS as well as the CNS role in implementing evidence-based practice.
Seventy abstracts were selected for either podium or poster presentations. Again, this year, there is a CNS student poster session. The abstracts addressed CNS practice in 3 practice domains (spheres of influence), emphasizing patient safety and quality care outcomes, leadership, evidence-based practice, and new ways to shape CNS practice. Topics include CNS work activities incorporated into 3 spheres of influence-patients, nursing practice, organization/system-including the development of clinical inquiry skills among staff nurses, use of simulation technology, strategies to maintain clinical excellence, CNS practice in end-of-life care decisions, and many new and thoughtful ideas to support CNS education, practice, and research. Collectively, the abstracts represent the breadth, depth, and richness of the CNSs' contribution to the well-being of individuals, families, communities, as well as to the advancement of the nursing profession.
The conference abstracts were published here to facilitate sharing this emerging new knowledge with those who were unable to attend the conference. As you read each abstract, appreciate the intellectual talent and clinical scholarship of your CNS colleagues who are advancing the practice of nursing and contributing to the health of society through improved outcomes for patients and healthcare organizations. We encourage you to contact individual presenters to network, collaborate, consult, or share your thoughts and ideas on the conference topics. Watch out for next year's call for abstracts and consider submitting for presentation at NACNS' next annual conference in Portland, Oregon, on March 4 to 6, 2010.