Research Articles (Nursing Science)

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Community health workers’ knowledge of Ubuntu informed care in tuberculosis, HIV, and AIDS in Gauteng Province
Gundo, Rodwell; Sepeng, Nombulelo Veronica; Lavhelani, Robert; Moeta, Mabitja; Musie, Maurine Rofhiwa; Seretlo, Raikane J.; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis (AOSIS, 2025-02-20)
BACKGROUND : Community health workers (CHWs) work with community members who experience various health problems. They assist community members to lead a healthy life and achieve an acceptable health status. To achieve this, there is a need for CHWs to apply Ubuntu philosophy when providing care related tuberculosis (TB), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). OBJECTIVES : The aim of this study was to assess CHW's knowledge of Ubuntu-informed Care in tuberculosis, HIV, and AIDS Services in Gauteng province, South Africa. METHOD : A total of 380 CHWs were recruited from a district in Gauteng province to participate in a training on the management of TB, HIV and AIDS. A questionnaire with 40 multiple choice questions was administered to the CHWs before the training. SPSS version 28 was used to analyse the data. RESULTS : The scores ranged from 9 to 33 out of 40 (M = 21.6, s.d. = 4.2). Out of the 380 participants, 274 (72.1%) passed the pretest while 106 participants (27.9%) failed. The highest mean scores were achieved by female participants (M = 21.6, s.d. = 4.3), participants aged 21-30 years (M = 21.8, s.d. = 4.1) and participants with additional course qualification after Grade 12 (M = 23.5, s.d. = 3.4). CONCLUSION : The findings highlight the need for targeted training interventions to improve the knowledge of CHWs on TB, HIV and AIDS. CONTRIBUTION : This study adds to the literature on the need for inclusion of Ubuntu when caring for people living with HIV and TB.
Exploring undergraduate nursing students’ experiences of evidence searching skills during nursing training : a focus group study in Tshwane, South Africa
Abdullahi, Fatima Isa; Nesengani, Tintswalo Victoria; Maree, Carin (Elsevier, 2026)
BACKGROUND : Information literacy is essential in undergraduate nursing education and clinical practice to ensure the appropriate use of advanced technological resources that promote informed clinical decision-making and safer, high-quality patient care. However, challenges include identifying high-quality evidence, evaluating reliability, assessing resources, and a lack of specific guidelines for embedded training in nursing curricula to support the implementation of evidence-based practice. AIM : To explore undergraduate nursing students’ experiences of evidence searching skills during nursing training at a South African university. DESIGN : A qualitative descriptive design using focus group discussions. METHODS : Data were collected using a semi-structured interview guide. Seven focus group discussions were conducted with 46 undergraduate nursing students from all year groups. The participants were purposively selected. Discussions were audio-recorded and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. FINDINGS : Four themes emerged: (1) awareness of the need for evidence-searching skills, (2) obtaining knowledge and skills related to evidence-searching skills, (3) training opportunities, and (4) students’ recommendations for strengthening evidence-searching skills. CONCLUSION : Undergraduate nursing students recognized the theoretical importance of evidence searching but lacked the ability to navigate scholarly databases due to limited exposure to context-specific training, leading to the adoption of ineffective habits, including reliance on AI tools. The current first-year training is inadequate to ensure nursing proficiency. To ensure patient safety and promote evidence-based practice, the study recommends a scaffolded, progressive training program that includes practical workshops to help students access, critically evaluate, and ethically apply scientific evidence in academic and clinical settings, thereby supporting lifelong learning, academic integrity, and professional practice. This aligns with global efforts to deliver safer, higher-quality care.
Exploring the training needs of nurses in enhancing the self-concept of patients with spinal cord injury in a selected rehabilitation hospital in Gauteng, South Africa
Mahlaole, Khanyisile Agnes; Bhana-Pema, Varshika; Musie, Maurine Rofhiwa; Dlamini, S. (Elsevier, 2026)
BACKGROUND : Patients with spinal cord injuries (SCI) often experience changes in self-concept during rehabilitation, impacting health outcomes and hospital stay duration. OBJECTIVE : To explore and describe nurses’ training needs to enhance the self-concept of SCI patients in a rehabilitation hospital. DESIGN : Exploratory, descriptive, qualitative design. SETTING : A government-owned rehabilitation hospital in Gauteng, South Africa. PARTICIPANTS : 20 purposively sampled nurses from various categories. METHODS : Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted and analysed using Tesch’s method. RESULTS : Four themes emerged: knowledge of self-concept, identification of altered self-concept, interventions to enhance self-concept, and training needs. Nurses demonstrated inconsistent understanding and relied on personal skills without formal training. CONCLUSIONS : Specialized training is essential to equip nurses with strategies to enhance patients’ self-concept, improving rehabilitation outcomes. SOCIAL MEDIA ABSTRACT : Nurses need training to support spinal cord injury patients’ self-concept during rehabilitation. RECOMMENDATIONS : Nursing education Institutions to incorporate self-concept knowledge and enhancement skills into their training programmes. Physical rehabilitation hospitals to conduct continuous professional development on self-concept care of patients with spinal cord injury to create awareness and skill development.
Developing a followership innovation implementation strategy for nurses : an applied implementation research study
Mamba, Welile Magnificent; Fourie, Willem; Botma, Yvonne; Heyns, Tanya (Elsevier, 2026)
INTRODUCTION : Followership training for nurses is critical because it improves the nurse leader–follower dyad, healthcare team functioning, and patient outcomes. However, leadership training has traditionally received priority in healthcare, and the follower role has been neglected. The reason is that followership is classified as passive role that requires no development. AIM : The aim of the research was to develop a followership innovation implementation strategy for nurses working in a hospital. METHODS : We adopted implementation research using an explorative descriptive qualitative design. Data were collected through a stakeholder analysis workshop from ten purposively selected stakeholders. The workshop was audio-recorded and data were analysed using deductive thematic analysis. Insights from stakeholders were incorporated into thematic areas adapted from the domains of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research and Implementation Research Logic Model. RESULTS : The innovation was a followership training programme for nurses, and the inner context was the selected hospital where training would be implemented. The external setting comprised the university, higher education council, and nursing council that would partner with the hospital during implementation. Individuals included the research team, hospital in-service department, and nurses who would receive training. The implementation process incorporated a pre-implementation plan. CONCLUSION : Implementation research frameworks are instrumental in developing evidence-based implementation strategies in the nursing discipline. Successful implementation of the followership innovation can promote collaboration between nurse leaders and followers. Future research needs to implement and investigate the impact of the followership innovation among nurses.
Coping strategies of caregivers of children with chronic renal failure on automated peritoneal dialysis at a hospital in Gauteng, South Africa
Khumalo, Sibongile Patricia; Van der Wath, Anna Elizabeth; Raikane, Seretlo; Sepeng, Nombulelo Veronica (Elsevier, 2026)
BACKGROUND : Renal failure is a common chronic condition which affect both adults and children worldwide and is characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function over time. There are several ways to treat kidney failure and one of the methods is automated peritoneal dialysis (APD), which is mainly used in children. Children with chronic renal failure are cared for by caregivers at home. When a child is diagnosed with chronic renal failure, the caregivers’ lives change drastically, and they must adapt to this change of caring for the child undergoing APD. AIM : The study aimed at exploring and describing the coping strategies of caregivers of children with chronic renal failure on APD at the selected academic hospital in the Gauteng Province, South Africa. METHODS : An exploratory-descriptive design was used to conduct this study. The study used purposive sampling to select a total number of ten participants. These participants were invited for face-to-face interviews conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. The interview questions were open ended to allow participants to provide rich information. A digital audio recorder was used to record the interviews. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. FINDINGS : Five themes emerged from the data: Psychological coping strategies, social and emotional support systems, spiritual coping strategies, substance use as a coping mechanism and recommended informational support systems by caregivers. CONCLUSION : Although caregivers use various coping strategies associated with caring for children on APD, they require additional effective coping strategies and support from the hospital, family members and support groups.
Conceptualisation of relational care through cultivating attentiveness : the butterfly effect in mental health nursing
Ramalisa-Budeli, Rudo; Du Plessis, Emmerentia; Scholtz, Suegnèt (Elsevier, 2026)
BaACKGROUND : Attentiveness as the foundation of care fosters authentic connections between mental health nurses and their patients. This paper highlights the transformative impact of attentiveness and relational care in mental health nursing by providing a concept analysis for relational care through cultivating attentiveness. Nurses in this setting are susceptible to systemic challenges that impact their provision of care; therefore, clarity of this concept may inform and empower nurses to navigate complex challenges while they render compassionate relational care. PURPOSE : To conceptualise relational care through cultivating attentiveness as experienced and understood by mental health nurses in South Africa. METHOD : Walker and Avant’s iterative steps of concept analysis. Twelve papers including dictionaries and thesauruses were included in this concept analysis. CONCLUSION : By linking relational care to cultivating attentiveness, this study highlights that this concept has a transformative impact on the health outcomes for patients and the patient’s relationship with the nurse. Attentiveness is an evolving and intentional effort that nurses should cultivate to foster trust, empathy and connection.
Experiences of human trafficking survivors when managed in an emergency department : a descriptive qualitative study
Van Rooy, Leanne; Filmalter, Cecilia Jacoba; Heyns, Tanya (Elsevier, 2026-06)
AIM : To explore and describe human trafficking survivors’ insights and lived experiences as victims in an ED to inform recognition and response to their needs. BACKGROUND : Numerous survivors reportedly visited the emergency department while being trafficked. The voice of the survivors needs to be heard to understand the perspectives of care, specific needs, and prevent re-traumatization. DESIGN : Descriptive qualitative design. METHODS : 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted with human trafficking survivors. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS : Four themes emerged from the data: distress, apprehension, intimidation, and oblivious healthcare professionals. DISCUSSION : Survivors experienced significant distress and apprehension, largely driven by intimidation related to the ongoing presence and control of traffickers. These experiences were exacerbated by healthcare professionals’ limited awareness, which hindered identification and disclosure. CONCLUSION : Implementing trauma-informed care and ongoing training is essential to foster trust, improve identification, and support victims in the emergency department. HIGHLIGHTS • Survivors of human trafficking experience high levels of distress and apprehension and are intimidated by their traffickers and constrained from disclosing their status. • Healthcare professionals’ limited awareness of human trafficking constrained their ability to recognize vulnerability and respond effectively. • Addressing these gaps through trauma-informed care, targeted training, and ongoing awareness among healthcare professionals is essential to create a safer environment, foster trust, and improve the identification and support of human trafficking victims.
Stakeholder’s perceptions regarding the incorporation of Ubuntu values in prevention of teenage pregnancy interventions in Ekurhuleni District, South Africa
Nyandeni, Sinethemba; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis; Sepeng, Nombulelo Veronica (Taylor and Francis, 2026)
Current interventions for the prevention of teenage pregnancy in South Africa lack multistakeholder involvement and Ubuntu values. This study aimed to explore and describe stakeholders’ perceptions regarding the incorporation of Ubuntu values in the interventions for the prevention of teenage pregnancy. The study findings will further propose how the Ubuntu values might be incorporated into the interventions. Sixty-seven purposively sampled stakeholders participated in focus group discussions conducted between April and September 2023 in the Ekurhuleni district of South Africa. The main findings highlight the benefits and perception of the lack of Ubuntu values as a threat to the incorporation of Ubuntu values in the interventions. Ubuntu values could promote teamwork, address the existing barriers, and facilitate the implementation of teenage pregnancy prevention interventions.
Validation and modification of a cardiotocograph interpretation training programme for midwives in South Africa to address existing interpretation inconsistencies, using the virtual nominal technique
Lukhele, Sanele; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis; Gundo, Rodwell (South African Medical Association, 2026-03-04)
BACKGROUND : Conventional models of cardiotocograph (CTG) interpretation training have focused on adherence to interpretation guidelines. There is a need for training in interpreting CTGs that emphasises integrating the complete clinical picture to inform clinical decision-making and improve patient safety. OBJECTIVES : To develop and validate a CTG interpretation training programme for midwives in South Africa to address the existing inconsistencies in interpretation. METHODS : This study was underpinned by the Analysis, Development, Design, Implementation and Evaluation (ADDIE) theoretical framework. The study followed an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design with the aim of exploring and describing midwives’ level of knowledge of CTG interpretation and their learning needs. The learning needs identified informed the development of a training programme. A panel of nine experts participated in a virtual nominal group technique to validate the training programme and prioritise the learning units through anonymous ranking. RESULTS : CTG interpretation training made up of the following learning units was developed and validated with the assistance of maternal and child health experts: Introduction to CTG interpretation; Technical aspects of CTG monitoring; Factors that affect the fetal heart rate during labour; Diagnosis; Clinician-woman relationship; Effective and timely communication of accurate information; Formulation of a comprehensive management plan after CTG interpretation; Using appropriate guidelines to inform decision-making; and Medicolegal hazards. CONCLUSION : This CTG interpretation programme differs from other conventional training programmes in that it focuses on the multifaceted nature of CTG interpretation and does not confine the training to CTG interpretation guidelines.
Validating a followership training innovation for nurses : a modified E-delphi study
Mamba, Welile Magnificent; Fourie, Willem; Heyns, Tanya; Coetzee-Prinsloo, Isabel M. (Elsevier, 2026)
INTRODUCTION : Training both leaders and followers on how they can improve their roles enhances organisational performance. Focusing on followership development produces followers who are empowered and understand that productivity is the responsibility for everyone in the organisational strata. AIM : To validate and reach expert consensus on a followership training innovation for nurses working in a hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS : A modified e-Delphi technique was adopted to solicit opinion from 16 purposively selected experts in nursing education, nursing management, organisational leadership, and followership. Two rounds of the Delphi were conducted using a structured questionnaire distributed via a Google form. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data in both rounds. Thematic analysis was used to analyse written comments from experts. RESULTS : The response rate was 100% (n = 16/16) in round 1 and 75% (n = 12/16) in round 2. The overall impression of the innovation reached a consensus level of 0.93. The overall consensus of the content of the innovation was 0.90 in round 1 and 0.88 in round 2. The experts’ comments and suggestions for adding items on the innovation were incorporated in round 2. CONCLUSION : Experts reached consensus on 5 criteria regarding the overall impression and 17 criteria on the content of the followership training innovation. Future research needs to implement the followership training innovation for nurses in hospital settings. IMPLICATIONS : Nurse leaders need to facilitate the implementation of followership training for nurses to develop effective followers.
Strategies for implementing birth companion support during labour : a scoping review
Kgodane, Molatelo Margaret; Yazbek, Mariatha; Musie, Maurine Rofhiwa; Nesengani, Tintswalo Victoria (Bentham Open, 2026-01-29)
BACKGROUND : Birth companion support has been globally recognised as an essential component of childbirth care for decades. The benefits of birth companion support care include providing the pregnant woman with continuous emotional and physical support, thereby promoting positive childbirth experiences. Despite the numerous benefits of birth companion support care and the availability of policies to support this intervention, its implementation remains challenging. OBJECTIVES : This study aimed to “map the evidence” and “identify gaps” in implementation strategies to enhance birth companion support. METHODS : This scoping review adhered to the framework developed by Arksey and O'Malley, which comprised (i) developing the research question, (ii) identifying applicable studies, (iii) choosing studies, (iv) charting data, and (v) compiling, summarizing, and reporting findings. The databases utilized were PubMed, ProQuest, Scopus, and Web of Science. The findings of the review were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS : This scoping review encompassed 14 studies, and the results were divided into two main sections. Section A included identified implementation strategies covering the following themes: Models for implementing birth companion support, Development of programs for implementing birth companion support, and Task shifting. Section B entailed factors affecting the implementation of birth companion support, which are facilitators and barriers to the implementation of birth companion support. DISCUSSION : Continuous in-service training and workshops given to the target groups of health care professionals on the benefits of birth companion care and the roles of the companions will raise awareness and guarantee the implementation of birth companion support care during labour and childbirth. The significance of this practice lies in its ability to enhance a positive childbirth experience, which is essential for high-quality care. CONCLUSION : The evaluated studies were conducted in nations with high, moderate, and low incomes. There was less evidence of a birth companion care implementation study conducted in South Africa. The findings of this study will assist in creating awareness and readiness for implementing birth companion support care in clinical practice.
Managing the support needs of newly graduated nurses in professional practice environments : a scoping review
Du Toit, Annelie; Leech, Ronell; Coetzee-Prinsloo, Isabel M. (Elsevier, 2026-01)
AIM/OBJECTIVES : To explore how professional practice environments manage the support needs of new graduate nurses during their transition into professional practice. BACKGROUND : The student-to-graduate nurse transition process is challenging, characterised by stress, emotional fatigue, and reduced confidence, which can affect nurse retention rates. Although transition support strategies exist, understanding is limited of how these are managed within professional practice environments globally. DESIGN : Scoping review. METHODS : A scoping review was conducted to synthesise the literature between January 2014 and December 2024. Electronic databases EBSCOhost, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and ProQuest central were searched, and three reviewers screened the reports. RESULTS : From 1443 sources, twenty articles met the inclusion criteria, representing studies across 13 countries, including America, the United Kingdom and Australia. Three reviewers extracted and thematically analysed data to identify transition support strategies within professional practice environments. Seven themes were identified: digital platform support, standalone support strategies, structured transition programs, strategy-specific programs, program supplements, blended learning, and e-learning. Transition support strategies improved emotional resilience, confidence, and clinical competence. Context-specific implementation, mentorship, and emotional support were vital in new graduate nurse transition support. Inconsistent program quality, lack of standardisation, and resource limitations emerged as barriers. CONCLUSIONS : There is no one-size-fits-all solution for managing the support needs of new graduate nurses. Cohesive, flexible, and context-specific transition support strategies, rooted within professional practice environments, provide the potential for improved retention, competence, and well-being. Policymakers and healthcare institutions should focus on structured, standardised, and well-resourced transition support strategies to support new graduate nurses sustainably.
Organisational and team-level strategies to enhance work engagement and mitigate burnout among nurse case managers : a global scoping review with implications for the Gulf Region
Ayoub, Ahmed Yahya; Maree, Carin; Van Wyk, Neltjie C. (MDPI, 2026-04)
INTRODUCTION : Work engagement among nurse case managers is central to safe, efficient, person-centred care, yet organisational and team-level factors that support engagement or mitigate burnout remain poorly synthesised. AIM : To map organisational and team-level strategies that enhance work engagement or reduce burnout among nurse case managers and aligned roles, as well as to consider their applicability to Gulf health systems. METHOD : We conducted a scoping review in accordance with the Arksey and O’Malley framework as refined by Levac et al. and reported it in line with PRISMA-ScR and PRISMA-S guidance. Six databases and targeted sources were searched for English-language records published between 2015 and 2025. Two reviewers independently screened titles/abstracts and full texts against predefined eligibility criteria, charted data using a piloted form, and synthesised findings thematically against Job Demands–Resources (JD-R) domains. RESULTS : Of 303 records identified, 248 were screened after deduplication, and 11 studies were included. Across nine health systems, findings were mapped to three JD-R domains: job resources, job demands, and personal resources. The most recurrent resource-related strategies involved structural supports, staffing stability, coordination infrastructure, and supportive leadership or team practices. Key demands included role complexity, high caseloads, coordination workload, discharge pressures, and staffing instability. Personal-resource approaches were fewer and mainly involved stress management, communication, and reflective practice interventions. Engagement was infrequently measured directly, and only one empirical intervention study originated from a Gulf health system. CONCLUSIONS : This JD-R-informed scoping review suggests that strengthening structural, staffing, and coordination resources, alongside supportive leadership and team climates, may be important for sustaining engagement and limiting burnout among nurse case managers. However, these findings should be interpreted as exploratory signals that map the current evidence landscape rather than definitive evidence of effectiveness. Multi-component JD-R-informed bundles in Gulf region health systems should therefore be prioritised for context-sensitive co-design, piloting, and evaluation.
Psycometric validation of an instrument to measure person-centred teamwork in hospital settings
Viljoen, Alida Hettie; Leech, Ronell; Slater, Paul; Masenge, Andries; Heyns, Tanya (Wiley, 2025-04)
AIM: To validate an instrument for measuring healthcare workers' perceptions of person-centred teamwork in hospital units. DESIGN : Quantitative cross-sectional descriptive design. This approach collected numerical data to explore and describe the characteristics of the instrument items, with the goal of generating insights as to the validity and reliability of the items. METHODS : The target population included healthcare workers who worked in hospital settings. Total sampling was used to identify healthcare workers. Convenience sampling was used to select the participants. The participants completed the instrument. The data were captured and analysed using the software IBM SPSS Statistics Version 28 and RStudio 2023.06. RESULTS : A 38-item instrument measuring the perceptions of healthcare workers of person-centred teamwork was tested psychometrically. A total of 388 healthcare workers working in private (n = 160) and public (n = 228) hospitals completed the instrument. Confirmatory factor analysis was used, indicating that the items were significant and that the constructs were well measured. Factor loading was present, and bifactor analysis confirmed the multidimensionality of each construct. The Cronbach's α confirmed the reliability of each of the 38 items. CONCLUSION : The person-centred teamwork instrument was reliable and validated as a multidimensional scale comprising 38 items. The instrument is psychometrically suitable for measuring person-centred teamwork in hospital settings. IMPLICATIONS : The person-centred teamwork instrument provides the ability to measure person-centred teamwork efforts to improve practice. As a measurable concept, person-centred teamwork can be improved by distinguishing areas for improvement. LINK TO PRACTICE : The 38 item person-centred teamwork instrument indicated good fit for measuring the constructs, and the instrument was validated. Each of the items was reliable for measuring person-centred teamwork. The instrument can be applied internationally to assist in the measurement of person-centred teamwork practices to improve clinical outcomes.
Support needed by nursing students to develop professional dignity
Shilenge, Isabel Hlupheka; Van Wyk, Neltjie C.; Van der Wath, Anna Elizabeth (Sage, 2025-11)
BACKGROUND : Nursing students’ professional dignity development during work-integrated learning is dependent on support from professional nurses. If they are left unsupported, such development is jeopardised. AIM : The aim of the study was to explore and describe the support that nursing students need from professional nurses, including their lecturers, during work-integrated learning to develop professional dignity. RESEARCH DESIGN : A qualitative, exploratory-descriptive research design applied. Through volunteer sampling, participants were invited for face-to-face in-depth individual interviews to discuss the question: ‘What support did you need from others during work-integrated learning to feel dignified as nursing students?’ Saturation of data determined the number of participants. Recording of the interviews and the writing of field notes were carried out with the permission of the participants. Manual coding in a thematic analysis was done to analyse the intricate data content with intuition and insight. PARTICIPANTS AND RESEARCH CONTEXT : The study was undertaken in South Africa at a designated nursing education institution and the hospital where the students performed the bulk of work-integrated learning. Fourteen third-year students were interviewed. They had sufficient experience with work-integrated learning and could provide rich data concerning support needed to develop professional dignity. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS : The Faculty of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee at the University of Pretoria approved the proposal (Reference number 73/2023) and the applicable authorities gave written permission for the research to be conducted. Since the participants were students, the researchers made sure that they did not feel obliged to participate. FINDINGS : Four categories were identified, namely, (a) improving work-integrated learning experience, (b) value students’ professional development, (c) cooperate to benefit students’ professional growth and (d) manage resources optimally. CONCLUSION : Students needed to be respected and their input to quality nursing care acknowledged. Positive role models and learning conducive clinical environments contributed to their development.
Nurse lecturers' perceptions of their professional dignity : a phenomenological study
Froneman, Christelle; Van Wyk, Neltjie C.; Bhana-Pema, Varshika (Sage, 2025-12)
BACKGROUND : Lecturers who are working in empowering environments and are treated with respect by students and managers, feel dignified and capable of being positive role models to their students. The opposite happens when they are not treated with respect and experience challenging working environments. AIM : The aim of the study was to explore and describe how nursing lecturers of a designated education institution in South Africa experienced factors that influenced their perceived professional dignity. RESEARCH DESIGN : A descriptive phenomenological research design with a constructivist paradigm applied. Individual interviews were conducted with lecturers to obtain answers to the question ‘How do you experience factors at the institution that influence your dignity as a professional person?’ Probes were used encouraging the participants to comprehensively describe their experiences. The data were analysed according to the steps designed by Giorgi in which the natural dimension of the phenomenon as narrated by the participants was transformed into the phenomenological dimension of the phenomenon. PARTICIPANTS AND RESEARCH CONTEXT : The study was undertaken in South Africa at a nursing education institution and 18 voluntary purposively selected lecturers were involved. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS : The Faculty of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee at the University of Pretoria approved the proposal and the applicable authorities gave written permission for the research to be conducted. Informed voluntary consent was obtained from the participants before the research commenced. FINDINGS : The essence of the participants’ experiences refer to ‘longing for professional dignity.’ The supporting constituents are: ‘acknowledging lecturers as specialists’, ‘enhancing their self-determination’, ‘acknowledging their capabilities’, ‘promoting collegiality’, ‘creating conducive teaching environments’, ‘being respected by students’, and ‘perceiving lecturers as possessing integrity’. CONCLUSION : The participants’ perceived dignity was influenced by the way they had been treated by students and managers at the designated institution. Their working environment also impacted on their perceived professional dignity.
Components to include in a program to facilitate the transition of novice nurses in emergency departments : a descriptive qualitative study
Mashao, Kapari Constance; Filmalter, Cecilia Jacoba; Heyns, Tanya (Elsevier, 2025-07)
AIM : To explore the insights of stakeholders regarding the components that should be included in a program to facilitate the transition of novice nurses in emergency departments. BACKGROUND : Novice nurses working in emergency departments are routinely confronted with substantial workloads, recurrent traumatic events, interpersonal conflicts and psychosocial challenges. These nurses need specific knowledge, skills and attitudes to function optimally. Inadequate support can hinder the clinical progression and potential assimilation of novice nurses into emergency departments, having a negative impact on transition outcomes. Over time, inadequately supported novice nurses may experience emotional and mental pressures, leading to occupational stress, decreased job satisfaction and increased nurse turnover. DESIGN : Descriptive qualitative study. METHODS s: We recruited participants from the emergency departments of three selected public hospitals in the Tshwane Central Health District, South Africa. The participants were selected via purposive, maximum variation and snowballing sampling using the following inclusion criteria: 1) trained emergency nurses, including managers, clinical facilitators and nurses providing direct patient care; and 2) had at least six months of working experience after obtaining a specialty qualification in emergency nursing. Twelve participants (n = 12) participated in the study. Data were collected via the World Café method and analyzed thematically. RESULTS : The participants identified five components for inclusion in a program, namely, support systems, orientation, competencies, knowledge resources and reflective practice. CONCLUSION : Novice nurses working in emergency departments need a comprehensive, formal program for successful transition. When adequately supported, novice nurses may develop positive perceptions of their working environment, increasing job satisfaction and retention.
Use of virtual clinical education in emergency nursing care : a scoping review
Smit, Liesel; Heyns, Tanya; Cochrane, Maria Elizabeth; Kuhn, Marlize (Elsevier, 2026-03)
BACKGROUND : Head-mounted devices (HMDs), such as smart glasses, are being implemented to deliver virtual clinical education (VCE) in emergency care, yet their value and practical limitations remain unclear. OBJECTIVE : To synthesise evidence on HMDs enabled VCE usage by healthcare professionals and students in emergency care, and to identify reported benefits and challenges. METHODS : A Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guided scoping review was conducted. Five databases and grey literature sources were searched, without date restrictions, for English-language studies describing HMD use for VCE in emergency care. Sixteen studies met the eligibility criteria. Data were charted and summarised descriptively. RESULTS : Most studies (50%) were published after 2021, originating from high-income countries. Reported advantages included enhanced two-way communication, faster clinical decision-making, hands-free documentation and remote supervision. Recurrent barriers were short battery life, unstable connectivity, restricted field-of-view, hygiene concerns and medicolegal uncertainty. Small sample sizes, heavy reliability of simulated environments and varied use of outcome measures limits generalisability of the findings. CONCLUSION : Early evidence suggests that VCE using HMDs, can enrich emergency care, workflow and teaching, but technical, human-factors and regulatory obstacles persist. Larger, multi-centre studies using standardised metrics and real-world deployment are required before routine adoption can be recommended. HIGHLIGHTS • Enhanced Real-Time Learning: VCE via HMDs enabled observation and guidance during emergency scenarios. • Improved communication and decision-making: VCE is using HDMs can facilitate rapid information transfer and remote consultations. • Feasibility: Despite technical limitations, HMDs are feasible and practical in emergency care environments. • Global Relevance with Local Adaptation: Global interest was evident, but region-specific trials are needed. • Future Innovation: Findings emphasised the need to refine technology, validate outcomes, and support adoption.
The disposal of placenta among indigenous groups globally : an integrative literature review
Moeti, Cecilia; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis; Rasweswe, Molatelo Melitah (Wiley, 2023-10)
INTRODUCTION : The placenta, or afterbirth, plays a vital role in supplying nutrients and oxygen via the umbilical cord. Western medicine sees the placenta as a medical waste and discards it after delivery. Meanwhile, indigenous groups observe rituals or ceremonies prior to their disposal since it bears sacred importance. AIM : The aim of the literature review is to review the current literature on indigenous methods of disposing placenta. METHODS : Through the EBSCOhost search engine, the authors had access to the following databases: CINAHL; MEDLINE; E-Journals; Health Sources: Nursing/Academic Edition; Scopus; and African Journals Online. A manual search of the grey literature through Google Scholar and Google Search engines, as well as citation searching using reference lists, was also used. The following keyword searches came up: placental disposal, placental waste, placental release, indigenous placental disposal, traditional placental disposal, cultural placenta, and placental rituals. The authors followed the inclusion criteria of qualitative, quantitative, or mixed research articles or reports from experts and different organisations published between 2013 and 2022 in English. FINDINGS : The following three themes with subthemes emerged in the context of this review paper: (1) placental consumption (increases milk production, prevents postpartum depression, and prevents postpartum bleeding); (2) placental burial (burial site determines the child’s fate, protection of the child, and fertility); and 3). artifacts (memorabilia). CONCLUSION : Indigenous placental disposal methods have a significant value to Indigenous women globally. The rituals performed have a special meaning attached to them. It is important for Western medicine to respect and support indigenous placental disposal methods and ensure safe handling from the healthcare facilities to their homes.
Factors contributing to the underutilisation of midwife obstetric units in the Tshwane District Region, South Africa
Yazbek, Mariatha; Cadman, Rebecca; Swanepoel, Lizelle; Sejosengoe, Omogolo; Heyns, Kayla; Ramoroka, Mmabatho; Thamane, Khabo (Wiley, 2026-02-23)
AIM : To determine why midwife obstetric units are not being utilised in the Tshwane District Region, South Africa. DESIGN : A qualitative, cross-sectional study design was used to explore and describe the factors contributing to the underutilisation of midwife obstetric units by low-risk women in the Tshwane District Region. METHOD : Semistructured interviews provided information about individuals’ perceptions, beliefs and attitudes towards midwife obstetric units in 16 diverse, low-risk postnatal women between the ages of 18 and 25 years old. Interviews were audiorecorded and transcribed, and thematic analysis was conducted to identify themes. RESULTS : We identified four major themes: (1) superior facilities and services; (2) negative experiences and perceptions; (3) staff behaviour; and (4) educational gaps. CONCLUSIONS : This study provided greater insight into the factors contributing to why midwife obstetric units are being underutilised in the Tshwane District Region. Understanding these perceptions and reasons allows public health nurses, specifically those involved in midwifery to use the research, to improve the services available.

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