A round-up of news from the professional journals
RCN widens net
Registered nurses believe their non-registered colleagues would join the RCN
given the chance, but few believe care assistants share the college’s
"values and beliefs". As voting started on a rule change that could
extend RCN membership to healthcare assistants (HCAs) and nursing cadets, a
Mori survey of more than 1,000 college members showed that more than half think
HCAs will want to join, but only two in five thought HCAs shared the college’s
philosophy. More than 80 per cent backed the move to extend membership.
Nursing Standard
13 September
Faulty tools
An audit of sphygmomanometers has revealed an alarming level of
unreliability. Over 8 per cent – 100 instruments – were in such poor condition
that the researcher suggested that they be withdrawn from service. In all, over
20 per cent of the instruments failed to meet the British Hypertensive
Society’s accuracy. recommendation.
Nursing Times
16 September
Helpline boost
Nurse-led helpline NHS Direct has been promised a new £22m computer system. The
system is part of a new, seven-year partnership with Axa Assistance.
Nursing Times
16 September
